CARGOCONNECT-MARCH2024 - Flipbook - Page 47
COVER STORY
SUPER WOMEN IN SUPPLY CHAIN
Female Leaders Bring Colour, Variety,
and Fresh Views
PHAEDRA DEN HERTOG
Customer Success Officer,
Awery Aviation Software
From Economics to Logistics
After graduating with a degree
in Economics, uncertainty about
my next step lingered—whether
to pursue further studies or dive
into the workforce. My journey in
the logistics sector commenced
when a neighbor offered me a
position with a small freight forwarder at Schiphol airport. After
a year and a half, I transitioned
to a role with an international
airline in the cargo department,
overseeing the loading of aircraft
on the ramp. Over the course
of 30 years, I’ve contributed to
the logistics industry, working
with three major (cargo) airlines
in diverse roles spanning sales,
data quality, customer service,
marketing, and digitalisation.
Juggling Roles
In reaching my current level of
success, I haven’t had to sacri昀椀ce
anything significant – but at
the moment achieving a better
work-life balance is becoming
more of a priority. During my
daughter's early years, I chose
to work part-time, but it didn't
impede my career progress.
Professional Ethos
My work motto is "Do what you
say and say what you do". I am
organised, punctual, customerfocussed, and committed to
problem-solving. Additionally, I
possess a keen eagerness to learn,
am receptive to fresh perspectives,
and exude a positive and enthusiastic demeanor. Embracing a
collaborative approach, I believe in
being a team player and willingly
o昀昀er assistance whenever possible.
Drawing Inspiration
A 昀椀gure I look to for inspiration in
my career is my current employer,
Vitaly Smiliantes, the CEO of Awery
Aviation Software. He consistently
strives to deliver the best to our
customers and never gives up. His
attitude inspires me to continuously
improve and become a better version of myself as well.
Wisdom in Action
I believe that every experience
gained in one’s career contributes
to personal and leadership growth.
These experiences empower individuals to navigate challenges,
o昀昀ering valuable lessons to draw
upon when facing life’s obstacles.
It’s important to recognise and
leverage the power of accumulated
experience when needed.
The Strength of Self-Trust
The best advice I have ever
received is to believe in myself
and trust my intuition. If it does
not feel right, don’t do it.
Value in Every Moment
I wouldn’t do anything di昀昀erently
in my life or career at this point.
Every step I’ve taken has brought
me to the point where I am now,
and made me the person I am
today. I learned along the way
how to handle new situations,
so every experience – be it in life
or work – is worthwhile.
Women add Power to the
Cargo Sector
It’s true that the cargo sector,
at the moment, is somewhat of
a male dominated world. But it
also values diverse perspectives,
and a female leader can bring
some colour, variety, and fresh
views to the top of any business.
My top tip – never let anything stop you from developing
and achieving what you want!
In some situations, you might need to
demonstrate your capabilities more than a
male co-worker. However, once your team
recognises your intelligence and abilities,
they will treat you as an equal. Don’t let this
hinder your development; continue to strive
for success.
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