Andy Grubb has been with International Forwarding since 2008, working in sales and new business. In June 2017, he achieved a long-held ambition to become a director of the company so we took the opportunity to ask him about his new role as Sales Director, IFL’s strategic plans and his tips for getting the best freight rates…
Congratulations on becoming a director of the company – how’s it going so far?
All good thanks. I am proud that I have successfully worked my way up from Field Sales Executive to a full directorship of the company. It has always been my ambition to be appointed a director and I am so pleased that International Forwarding has given me this opportunity.
As a director, I can certainly see things from a broader viewpoint within the company and it is opening my eyes to new challenges on a daily basis. Thankfully, my fellow directors have all been very supportive since my appointment.
You were previously Sales Manager – what’s your elevator pitch for International Forwarding?
I have always been good at opening doors and I now intend to use this expertise at director-to-director level.
What’s my pitch?
That International Forwarding is able to offer a one-stop solution for all your freight and logistics requirements – and we promise to build the solution you need to fit your situation or budget. So let’s talk and see how we can help your business.
How has IFL performed this year in terms of volumes and revenues?
IFL continues to go from strength to strength. We are one of the leading Midlands freight and logistics companies, consistently growing our volumes month on month while steadily increasing our revenue streams. Our strategic plan moving forward is to re-locate to a larger site if current growth continues as this would also give us more capacity for storage contracts.
What is the biggest concern for your freight customers right now?
Brexit is, of course, the major concern and the result of the government negotiating strategy is still unknown. However, together with our software suppliers, we are developing a range of electronic options so that we are prepared for whatever the outcome and we can offer our customers continuity for their supply chains.
Who do you admire and why?
I’m a great admirer of Warren Buffet, Bill Gates and the late Steve Jobs but if I had to choose one, it would be Steve Jobs. His passion, drive and never-give-up attitude are all qualities I admire, along with the fact that he totally revolutionised the world in which we live with the Apple brand, and the way we all communicate, in particular through products such as the iPad and iPhone.
Are you usually early, late or on time?
I like to get into the office early, which is not always as easy as I have two small children, but I always ensure I am on time. My one pet hate is when people are late for no particular reason.
What are you known for?
I would like to think my personality, drive, enthusiasm, leadership and organisational skills.
How do you spend your time when you are not working?
Spending valuable time with my family. I also like going to the gym, running and cycling. I’ve also recently started watching the American crime drama Breaking Bad; I’ve heard so many good reviews and have finally got around to watching it – three episodes in and I’m hooked.
What’s it like to work at International Forwarding?
For me, job satisfaction is paramount. IFL is like one big family and it’s a pleasure to work with so many great people, from our drivers and the lads in the warehouse right through to the board of directors. We all share the same passion, drive and commitment to the cause. I look forward to each day and the challenges ahead.
What’s your best tip for customers to get a good rate for the job?
To let IFL take care of all your shipping requirements – because the more volume you send with us, the better prices we can give!
Get in touch
To talk to Andy about how IFL can help your business, support your supply chain or any other questions, contact him at:
Andy Grubb
Sales Director, International Forwarding Limited
Tel: +44 (0)1675 434690
E-mail: andyg@internationalforwarding.co.uk
Image: © Nigel Parsons, 2017
