Alan Heijboer – a familiar face returns to Akomar

Alan Heijboer is certainly not a new face to many of his colleagues at Akomar. From 2011 to 2017, he was already part of our team, working in the RoRo department. After spending several years elsewhere, he returned to familiar ground in January, this time as a freight forwarder in our export department.

In this edition of ‘Back and Forth’, Alan talks about his return to Akomar, the dynamics of international logistics and why he believes personal contact still makes all the difference.

Back with a familiar team

Alan lives in Ridderkerk with his girlfriend and their two children. His son is twelve and his daughter is eight. Although Alan rejoined Akomar in January, his history with the company goes back much further. From 2011 to 2017, Alan worked in the RoRo department alongside Hennie, Thaida and others. After a period with another company, Akomar crossed his path once again. A position became available in the export department, and Alan was asked whether he would consider returning. “When I was asked how I would feel about coming back, I didn’t have to think about it for long.” His return did not feel like starting with a new employer. Many of the faces were still familiar, as was the way the team worked together. “I’m really enjoying being back. Of course, I have known Akomar and many of the people who work here for a long time.”

The whole world as his workplace

As a freight forwarder in the export department, Alan works with his colleagues to organise and coordinate complete logistics operations. “We arrange the shipment of all kinds of goods, large and small, to destinations all over the world.” Akomar does not transport these goods itself. The actual transportation is handled by parties such as road hauliers, shipping lines and airlines. As a freight forwarder, Alan acts as the link between the customer and all the parties involved in a shipment.

“We act on behalf of the customer and make sure the entire logistics process is properly organised. This includes planning, procurement, administration, documentation, customs clearance, storage and insurance.” The objective is clear: to take care of the entire process for customers and ensure that their goods reach the right destination as smoothly and cost-effectively as possible.

No two days are the same

For Alan, a working day in the export department starts with a good cup of coffee and a check of the shipments scheduled for that day. “I first check whether everything is running according to plan and whether there are any problems with the day’s shipments, such as transport delays or issues with customs clearance.” Once everything is on schedule, he turns his attention to other ongoing shipments and new enquiries. In logistics, however, plans can change at any moment. According to Alan, that is precisely what makes the work so varied and challenging. “You always have to stay alert and be able to respond quickly. All kinds of things can happen along the way, and it is up to us to find a suitable solution as quickly as possible.”

Creative solutions in a changing world

According to Alan, global instability is one of the greatest challenges facing the logistics sector. Wars, conflicts and border blockades can have a major impact on international trade routes. “When important routes or ports become temporarily less accessible, we have to look for alternative ways to ensure the cargo still reaches its destination.” Circumstances can change constantly, requiring up-to-date knowledge, flexibility and creativity. “It is a situation we must continually anticipate. You cannot always stick to the original plan, so you need to be able to switch quickly to a different route or solution.” In addition to geopolitical developments, Alan also sees challenges relating to price pressure, digitalisation and the transition towards more sustainable forms of transport.

Personal contact as the foundation

Despite all the technological developments, Alan believes personal contact remains indispensable. Good logistics services are not just about routes, documents and schedules; above all, they are about trust. “Personal contact is the key to a successful relationship. It allows you to really get to know a customer and understand what they truly want or need.” Alan has noticed that direct contact is becoming less common across many industries. “In the past, you could simply call someone when there was an issue. Nowadays, you often end up dealing with a back office first—or, even worse, a chatbot.” That is precisely why Akomar deliberately chooses short lines of communication and dedicated points of contact. “We know our customers and their files from A to Z. This means customers do not have to explain their situation to a different person every time. They have one dedicated contact who can answer all their questions.” According to Alan, this is one of the key qualities that sets Akomar apart from other logistics service providers.

Going the extra mile together

Personal contact also plays an important role within the team. Alan describes Akomar as an open, informal and friendly workplace that is, above all, highly professional. “At Akomar, we really do things together. Everyone is willing to go the extra mile. As a result, colleagues feel like much more than just colleagues.” That sense of connection does not end when the working day is over. Colleagues regularly meet outside the office too, whether on the padel court or at football and korfball tournaments. “These activities really contribute to team building. You get to know each other in a different way, and you notice the benefits when you work together.” Employees are also given opportunities to continue their professional development through courses and training programmes. Successes are celebrated with shared activities and team outings.

Memories that last

Because Alan previously worked at Akomar, he has already built up a wealth of fond memories. The company trips in particular have stayed with him. “We have had some fantastic trips together to places including Cologne, Dublin, Barcelona and Málaga. They were special occasions that we still often talk about.” Now that Alan is back, he can continue creating new memories alongside many familiar faces as well as some new colleagues.

Welcome back, Alan!

For many people at Akomar, Alan is not a new colleague but a familiar and trusted professional who has once again found his place within the team. With his experience, commitment and solution-oriented approach, he works hard every day to take care of our customers’ logistics needs from start to finish.

We are delighted to have you back, Alan. Welcome home!