“Empowering women to take on leadership roles not only strengthens the workforce but also sets an example for the next generation”
ES. As the CEO of Swiss Expo Logistics Ltd and a Board Member at IELA, you possess a wealth of experience in the exhibition and event logistics industry. Could you share some insights into your journey and what inspired you to pursue a leadership role in this field?
Alexandra Erdmann. My journey in the exhibition and event logistics industry has been both exciting and fulfilling. I started my career in 2002 with a deep-seated passion for creating seamless and efficient logistics solutions for clients. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of navigating through various roles within the industry, gaining invaluable insights and honing my skills. What inspired me to pursue a leadership role was the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the industry, driving innovation, and shaping the future of exhibition logistics. The dynamic nature of this field, coupled with the constant challenge of meeting diverse client needs, motivated me to take on leadership responsibilities and contribute to the growth and success. With the founding of SWISS EXPO LOGISTICS Ltd in 2010, I was able to realize everything I had always dreamed of.
ES. The IELA Operations Summit is a significant event for professionals in exhibition and event freight forwarding operations. Can you tell us about your experience at the 5th IELA Operations summit and any key takeaways or insights you gained from participating?
Alexandra Erdmann. Participating in the 5th IELA Operations Summit was an exceptional experience that provided a unique platform for IELA professionals in exhibition logistics industry and freight forwarding operations to come together. The summit facilitated in-depth discussions on emerging trends, best practices, and the latest technological advancements in the industry. Key takeaways included insights into sustainability, Artificial intelligence and DGR. It was also a great honor and pleasure to be one of the speakers and present together with Sudhir Dhavan from R.E Rogers India Pvt. Ltd the important topic Export Agent Safeguarding the Journey: Mastering Specialized Forwarding of Sensitive Goods. The networking opportunities were invaluable, allowing me to connect with industry peers, share experiences, and gain fresh perspectives that have proven beneficial in steering Swiss Expo Logistics towards continuous improvement and excellence.
ES. How does IELA contribute to improving operational efficiencies, enhancing service standards, and optimizing worldwide relationships for its members?
Alexandra Erdmann. IELA plays a vital role in raising industry standards, contributing to raising service standards and optimizing the global relationships of its members. Through initiatives such as the Operations Summit, IELA creates a knowledge-sharing platform where members and their employees can exchange best practice and learn about the latest developments. This collaborative approach fosters a global network that enables members to improve their operations and raise service standards. In addition, IELA’s commitment to optimizing global relationships provides members with opportunities for international collaboration, further strengthening the industry’s capabilities on a global scale.
ES. Your company, Swiss Expo Logistics Ltd, prides itself on delivering excellence in exhibition logistics services. What strategies do you employ to ensure consistent quality and customer satisfaction, especially in such a dynamic and demanding industry?
Alexandra Erdmann. Ensuring consistent quality and customer satisfaction in the dynamic and demanding exhibition logistics industry requires a multi-faceted approach. At Swiss Expo Logistics Ltd, we prioritize these aspects by implementing innovative strategies. This includes a significant investment in cutting-edge logistics technology to streamline processes and provide real-time visibility. Continuous training and development programs for our team ensure they stay abreast of industry trends and best practices, enabling them to meet the ever-evolving needs of our clients. Regular feedback mechanisms and proactive communication with clients are integral components of our customer-centric approach, allowing us to address challenges promptly and exceed expectations consistently.
ES. Women’s leadership and empowerment have become increasingly important topics across various sectors. As a woman leader in the exhibition logistics field, what are your thoughts on the importance of women’s representation and empowerment in leadership roles?
Alexandra Erdmann. Women’s representation and empowerment in leadership roles are critical for fostering diversity, innovation, and overall success in any industry, including exhibition logistics. The importance of diverse perspectives cannot be overstated, and women bring unique insights and approaches to problem-solving that contribute to the industry’s growth and resilience. Empowering women to take on leadership roles not only strengthens the workforce but also sets an example for the next generation.
It’s about breaking barriers, challenging stereotypes, and creating an inclusive environment where talent thrives, irrespective of gender. As a woman leader in this field, I am committed to championing these principles and inspiring others to pursue and excel in their careers. I think it’s wonderful to see how many great, passionate and strong women there are in the exhibition logistics industry and especially within IELA. It makes me proud to be a female entrepreneur and to share my knowledge and experience.
ES. Swiss Expo Logistics offers a range of services to meet the diverse needs of its clients. Can you highlight some innovative solutions or projects that your company has undertaken recently to address the evolving demands of the exhibition and event logistics landscape?
Alexandra Erdmann. Swiss Expo Logistics Ltd consistently pursues innovative solutions to address the evolving demands of the exhibition and event logistics landscape. Recent projects have focused on leveraging data analytics for predictive logistics planning, allowing us to optimize routes, minimize delays, and enhance overall efficiency.
Embracing sustainability, we have implemented eco-friendly practices in our operations, reducing our environmental footprint. These initiatives not only align with industry trends but also position Swiss Expo Logistics as a forward-thinking and reliable partner in the ever-changing exhibition landscape.
ES. Collaboration and networking are essential aspects of success in the exhibition logistics industry. How do you leverage your position as a Board Member at IELA to build meaningful connections and partnerships that benefit your company and its clients?
Alexandra Erdmann. As a Board Member at IELA, I leverage this esteemed position to actively build meaningful connections and partnerships that significantly benefit Swiss Expo Logistics and its clients. The position provides a unique platform to engage in collaborative discussions with industry leaders, sharing insights and fostering relationships. By participating in key industry events as well as the annualy congress and summits facilitated by IELA, I can connect with fellow professionals, exchange ideas, and identify strategic opportunities for collaboration. This networking not only enhances the global reach of Swiss Expo Logistics but also opens doors to partnerships that bring added value to our clients. It’s a proactive approach to staying at the forefront of industry advancements and ensuring our services consistently meet the highest standards.
ES. Looking ahead, what do you envision for the future of exhibition and event logistics, and how do you see Swiss Expo Logistics contributing to shaping that future?
Alexandra Erdmann. Looking ahead, the future of exhibition and event logistics is poised for remarkable advancements, driven by technology, sustainability, and global collaboration. At Swiss Expo Logistics, we envision playing a pivotal role in shaping this future by embracing innovation and sustainability practices. We anticipate the integration of logistics seamlessly into the overall event experience, where our services contribute not just to the transportation of goods but also to enhancing the overall efficiency and impact of exhibitions. By staying at the forefront of technological trends, implementing sustainable logistics practices, and fostering strategic partnerships, Swiss Expo Logistics aims to be a trailblazer in shaping the future landscape of exhibition and event logistics.
ES. What advice would you give to aspiring professionals, especially women, who are considering a career in exhibition and event logistics or aiming for leadership roles in the industry?
Alexandra Erdmann. To aspiring professionals, especially women, considering a career in exhibition and event logistics or aiming for leadership roles, my advice is to be fearless in pursuing your goals. Embrace challenges as opportunities for growth, seek continuous learning, and actively participate in industry networks. Within the logistics and forwarding industry, trade fair logistics is the most exciting sector. Cultivate a strong support system, both professionally and personally, and never underestimate the value of your unique perspective. The exhibition logistics industry thrives on diversity, and your contributions are vital to its growth and success. Be persistent, stay true to your passion, and don’t be afraid to carve your path. You have the capability to make a significant impact, and the industry benefits immensely from diverse leadership.
