May 08, 2024
Steven Polmans, an all round long term air cargo veteran, has been working in the industry for several decades both in operational, commercial and general management roles at different companies and different parts of the value chain. Currently he is running his own company and helping other companies with their strategy, business development or increasing operational efficiency.
How did you get into airfreight/logistics?
Probably like so many: by accident/ coincidence.
What quote has most resonated with you?
People who are willing, will find solutions. Those who are resisting, will find excuses.
What is the best piece of advice you have ever received?
If you do not shoot, you will never hit anything. My father tried to encourage me to try something and if I failed, no problem. No damage done. At least I would have tried. Not sure if the link with the shooting he made still sounds ok these days… 
What hobby have you always wanted to try but never got around to?
These are the kind of questions I need to think about and make me realise I should work a bit less and finally just should start with having any hobby…
If there was a movie made about your life, who would you like to see play the lead role?
I could live with George Clooney.
How do you motivate your team?
Being passionate about what I do, creating a fun place to work and by being genuine interested in them and what drives them.
If you could have dinner with any three people, living or dead, who would they be and why?
This changes every week, depending on the news and my mood. Soo many people I would like to have a chat with, for the good and wrong reasons. But if you want names: Zara Rutherford, a 19year old (young) Belgian lady flying solo around the world in 2022 being the youngest in the world. Nelson Mandela, listening to him and his stories must be fascinating. And finally, although there is a few historic people I really would like to talk to, asking them: “why?!? What where you thinking?!?”, I would not like to spoil the dinner and the fun, so I will go for Ricky Gervais. Love his humor and the way he manages to say things nobody else dares to say.
Early Riser or night owl?
Night owl! Anybody experiencing me early morning knows.
If you could only eat one meal for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Doubting… Mc Donalds…?! Belgian beef stew? Thai curry?!? Will probably have to say real Belgian fries, as it is the only thing I could not think not having anymore for the rest of my life…
If you had not pursued a career in logistics, what other field would you have liked to go into?
Studies hotel management, so would still be open today for a career in that industry.
What quote has most resonated with you?
People who are willing, will find solutions. Those who are resisting, will find excuses.
Cats or dogs?
Dogs.
What is the most adventurous thing you have ever done?
Probably my 3 mountain biking trips in Africa.
If you could have any superpower, what would it be?
Reading peoples mind looks interesting to me. But not all the time and every time. Must become exhausting. But if tou really have a super power, think ot would be too selfish to choose something personal. So would probably go for something making the world a better place to live in for many people.
Looking back over your career, what would your message be to someone considering a career in logistics?
Just do it!! So many opportunities, so many challenges, so much fun. That compensates the low saleries, the flexibility, the constant change and the unrealistic demands from some customers.
What would your autobiography be called?
Time is up, Steven!
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Author: Edward Hardy
