Employee Spotlight Interview – Katerina

Tell us about your role with IFC and how long you have been with the business.
I have been with IFC for two years; my role is import cartage coordinator.

What do you enjoy most about working at IFC?
I enjoy working with all the different customers IFC does business with, and the staff are amazing to work with, making IFC enjoyable.

What drew you to work in the supply chain industry?
I started my journey in the shipping industry when I was 17 years old and was doing a traineeship in business administration while working for OOCL. Since then, I have moved into the forwarding side of the industry.

Tell us a little about your background and experience.
I started working at OOCL when I was 17, studying business admin while working for the import department – I was there for a few years handling clearances on import vessels into SYD and BNE. After a few years, I went into forwarding and have worked with a few forwarders. I have been lucky to learn different roles moving forward, from export to import air and sea.

In your experience working in the industry, what are the biggest challenges and opportunities you’ve encountered so far?
COVID has been the most challenging obstacle to overcome as many recourses were limited over that period, which streamlined down to our customers.

How do you think IFC differentiates from competitors?
We are very customer-focused and always go above and beyond for our customers, even if that means booking deliveries at 9pm.

For aspiring professionals interested in a career in the supply chain industry, what advice would you give them to kickstart their journey?
There is much to learn within the supply chain industry, so many roads can be taken – in our economy, knowing this industry is worth having. Don’t be afraid to learn; there is much room for growth.

What hobbies or interests do you enjoy pursuing in your free time?
Spending time with family and cruise ship holidays.

Describe your life’s motto in a few words!
Life is too short – make core memories that everyone will remember.