SCM Executives

𝗧𝘄𝗼 𝗱𝗮𝘆𝘀 𝗼𝗳 𝘀𝘁𝗿𝗲𝗻𝗴𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝘀𝘁𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗴𝘆 & 𝗽𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗽𝗿𝗼𝗳𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗴𝗿𝗼𝘄𝘁𝗵   This Monday and Tuesday, we spent two inspiring days together as a team, reflecting on our yearly strategy and working on personal and professional growth.   With themes like taking ownership and breaking patterns, we explored how to challenge ourselves and strengthen our collaboration. The program was a mix of strategy sessions, coaching (including parallels drawn to boxing), and moments to connect on a more personal level.   The disco-themed evening was a great way to wrap up these intense days, and it left us energized and aligned for the year ahead.   Check out some impressions from our outing below.

𝗪𝗲 𝗿𝗲𝗰𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗹𝘆 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝗰𝗲𝗱 𝗝𝗼𝗵𝗮𝗻 𝗘𝗹𝘇𝗲𝘀 𝗮𝘁 𝗚𝗫𝗢 𝗟𝗼𝗴𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗶𝗰𝘀 We are thrilled to announce that Johan E. has been successfully placed as Senior Business Development Manager at GXO Logistics, Inc., a global leader in cutting-edge logistics and supply chain solutions. We spoke with Johan about his decision to join GXO and his vision for the role.   𝗪𝗵𝘆 𝗚𝗫𝗢 𝗟𝗼𝗴𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗶𝗰𝘀? "After 13 years with a mid-size and international company, where I enjoyed a rewarding international career, I was eager to join a larger, dynamic organization with a strong and competitive offering. Being a challenger and leader in the industry with its advanced technological solutions and focus on changing the game in supply chain, GXO fits that description perfectly.   GXO’s ambition to strategically develop the Industrial Spare Parts and Technology verticals aligns seamlessly with my extensive experience in these areas. The combination of my background in international business development, 3PL services and contract logistics vs. GXO’s cutting-edge product and aspirations creates the perfect opportunity for success."   𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝗝𝗼𝗵𝗮𝗻’𝘀 𝗽𝗿𝗶𝗼𝗿𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗲𝘀? "My main focus will be on the strategic development of the Industrial Spare Parts and Technology verticals. This involves creating a comprehensive strategic plan while taking a pragmatic approach to attracting new customers. Balancing high-level strategy with actionable execution is key to driving growth and achieving GXO’s goals."   Congratulations to Johan Elzes and GXO Logistics on this exciting partnership! We are confident that Johan’s expertise and vision will play a significant role in driving GXO’s success in these critical sectors.

𝗪𝗲 𝗿𝗲𝗰𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗹𝘆 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝗰𝗲𝗱 𝗗𝗮𝘃𝗶𝗱 𝗚𝗮𝗹𝗹𝗼 𝗮𝘁 𝗙𝗼𝗿𝗯𝗼 𝗙𝗹𝗼𝗼𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗦𝘆𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗺𝘀 We are excited to announce that David GALLO has been successfully placed as Head of Global Procurement at Forbo Flooring Systems, a global leader in high-quality flooring solutions. We spoke with David to learn more about this exciting move and his priorities in the role. 𝗪𝗵𝘆 𝗙𝗼𝗿𝗯𝗼 𝗙𝗹𝗼𝗼𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗦𝘆𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗺𝘀? “After more than 25 years of experience across procurement and supply chain functions in large international groups like Hewlett Packard, Volvo Trucks, and CRH, I wanted to consolidate my expertise by leading a global procurement department in a multicultural environment. Forbo Flooring Systems offers an exceptional opportunity to bring and adapt the mature methodologies I’ve used in large corporations to a mid-size yet very international company, where cross-functional cooperation is a core part of the culture. The executive search process, developed by Forbo Flooring Systems and SCM Executives, was thorough and professional, and my interest in joining Forbo grew at every step." 𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝗗𝗮𝘃𝗶𝗱’𝘀 𝗽𝗿𝗶𝗼𝗿𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗲𝘀? “A strong team, supported by the board, has already achieved impressive results by centralizing most of the procurement spend while navigating significant challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic, the Ukraine conflict, and the Red Sea crisis. As Head of Global Procurement, I will focus on consolidating the excellent progress made so far, supporting Forbo’s ambitious sustainability agenda, and enhancing strategic forward planning to deliver cross-functional value. Strengthening supplier relationships and risk management, optimizing our contractual setups and sourcing processes, and reducing administrative workloads are also high on my agenda. This allows the team to concentrate on value creation and explore opportunities to lower the total acquisition cost for tail and non-strategic spend. It’s an exciting program I’m thrilled to embrace with the talented team at Forbo Flooring Systems.” Congratulations to David and Forbo Flooring Systems on this fantastic partnership. We’re confident that David’s leadership will drive incredible results and contribute to Forbo’s continued success in the industry.

𝗠𝗲𝗲𝘁 𝗟𝘆𝗻𝗻! We’re thrilled to have welcomed Lynn Koolen to the SCM Executives team this November. With a strong background in project management and account management, Lynn brings valuable skills and a curious mindset, ready to take on the exciting challenges of her new role. With a degree in Korean Studies, Lynn has always been fascinated by exploring different cultures and perspectives, a curiosity that now drives her in connecting with clients and candidates alike. Lynn is passionate about problem-solving and building connections, both professionally and personally. Her enthusiasm for learning and growing, combined with her positive attitude, is already making a great impact on the team. Take a look at the slides to get to know Lynn better and discover what motivates her in this new chapter of her career!

𝗘𝗻𝗱-𝗼𝗳-𝘆𝗲𝗮𝗿 𝘀𝘁𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗴𝘆 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝘁𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗱𝗮𝘆 Last Thursday, the SCM Executives team spent the day reflecting, creating, and connecting.   We started the morning at the graffiti museum, where we discussed our plans and strategy for 2025 in an inspiring and creative setting. Later, we rolled up our sleeves for a graffiti and street art workshop. We brainstormed ideas, experimented with designs, and created something unique as a team—though some of us may need to keep our day jobs!   The day continued with a boat tour through the Amsterdam Light Festival, offering a fresh perspective on the city and a chance to unwind as a team. We ended with a shared dinner, recharged and ready to tackle the opportunities ahead in 2025.

𝗡𝗮𝘃𝗶𝗴𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗰𝘂𝗹𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗮𝗹 𝘁𝗿𝗮𝗻𝘀𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀: 𝗶𝗻𝘀𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁𝘀 𝗳𝗿𝗼𝗺 𝗡𝗼𝗼𝗿𝗮 𝗥𝗮𝗶𝘀𝗶𝗳𝗮𝗿 At SCM Executives, we believe cultural diversity and adaptability are essential qualities for leaders in today’s global logistics landscape. As the first point of contact for candidates, Noora Raisifar, shares her reflections on adapting to new environments.   "Moving from the UAE to the Netherlands in 2019, right before COVID, was an eye-opening and transformative experience. Not only did I have to deal with the changes in weather, but also changes in culture and lifestyle. Having spent my entire life in Dubai—a place I'd like to call a terminal of global community, where leaders meet, connect, and grow in cultural harmony—it was fascinating to step into the more locally rooted culture of the Netherlands.   Adapting to a new environment wasn’t always easy, but it helped me develop a deeper understanding of cultural diversity and its role in leadership. This experience also taught me how cultural transitions shape professional and personal growth, and I see these themes reflected in the stories of candidates I speak with every day.   In my latest role at SCM Executives, as an ambassador and bridge for our candidates, I’ve had the privilege of connecting with executive leaders who’ve navigated similar transitions. I’ve found that my personal experiences help me engage in meaningful conversations with candidates about the challenges and opportunities they encounter. From adjusting to new work styles to finding ways their diverse backgrounds can drive impact, these discussions inspire me and deepen my perspective on leadership.   Navigating cultural transitions isn’t without challenges: adapting to different work styles, embracing diversity, and finding balance in change. The change in culture does not only have to be dealt with in the work environment but also requires adaptability for the whole family in such a migration. Through my role at SCM Executives, I’ve seen how empathy, learning, and strong communication can turn these challenges into opportunities—for both individuals and organizations." - Noora Raisifar   At SCM Executives, we see these qualities reflected in the leaders we work with every day. How do you approach cultural shifts in your workplace? Share your thoughts—we’d love to hear from you.

𝗗𝗶𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗶𝗻 𝗹𝗼𝗴𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗶𝗰𝘀 𝗹𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗽: 𝗮 𝗸𝗲𝘆 𝘁𝗼 𝗶𝗻𝗻𝗼𝘃𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗼𝗿 𝗮𝗻 𝗼𝗻𝗴𝗼𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗰𝗵𝗮𝗹𝗹𝗲𝗻𝗴𝗲?   At SCM Executives, we are dedicated to leading the way in executive search for logistics, manufacturing, and trading companies. We believe diversity isn't just a trend, but a vital driver of success.   Diverse leadership teams drive creativity, innovation, and better decision-making. Yet, studies show that many industries, including logistics, still face challenges in achieving diversity at the executive level.   We’d love to hear your thoughts on this topic!

𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗱𝗼𝗲𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗹𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗲𝗿 𝗼𝗳 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗳𝘂𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗲 𝗹𝗼𝗼𝗸 𝗹𝗶𝗸𝗲? In our recurring LinkedIn section, we explore the theme of modern leadership from diverse perspectives by asking one simple question: What does the leader of the future look like? This time, we spoke to Ryanne Van Der Eijk. She is a former SVP Customer Experience at KLM and COO of Dubai Airports and currently works as an external operating advisor for medium and small enterprises, and as a coach for young potentials, executives, and (female) entrepreneurs. Ryanne also serves as a C-level interim executive and is a supervisory board member for companies like easyJet Plc and NH Hotel Group. “I believe in authentic leaders who chart the course together with their team. People are the key to achieving results, and the future leader is approachable and accessible, creating an environment where energy flows freely across all levels of the organization. By fostering self-reflection and cultivating a safe workspace, leaders enable even the difficult conversations to take place. It’s not just about focusing on the 𝙬𝙝𝙖𝙩—it’s about embracing the 𝙝𝙤𝙬 to ensure the unspoken can be voiced and addressed. The leader of the future builds diverse teams, embraces differing opinions, and ensures inclusivity isn’t just a value—it’s a practice. Purpose and profit go hand in hand. By fostering engagement towards the purpose and translating it into tangible actions and behaviors within the organization, leaders create a direct link between purpose and day-to-day activities. This connection ensures that everyone understands how their efforts drive the organization’s goals forward. While results remain paramount, they are deeply intertwined with fostering workplace joy and personal connection. Leaders who integrate accountability with genuine care for their teams create the conditions for long-term success. Achieving goals is not an either/or scenario; it’s about combining high performance with a culture where people feel valued and supported, ensuring both the individual and the organization thrive together.”

𝗪𝗵𝘆 𝗺𝗼𝗿𝗲 𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗽𝗮𝗻𝗶𝗲𝘀 𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝗰𝗵𝗼𝗼𝘀𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗶𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗺 𝗹𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗽 Historically, interim roles were most commonly used in sectors with seasonal peaks to manage surges in demand. Today, however, interim leaders are stepping into crucial functions across logistics, supply chain, and operations. For sectors like manufacturing, trading, and logistics—where complex production and goods flows require highly specialized expertise—interim management offers distinct advantages.   At SCM Executives, we recognize that interim executives are more than just short-term solutions; they’re strategic assets, helping companies achieve key business goals. Interim professionals can: • Ensure business continuity during leadership transitions, mergers, or acquisitions. • Deliver crisis management expertise, stabilizing operations in high-pressure situations. • Lead critical projects with defined timelines, ensuring on-time, on-budget execution. • Drive strategic change management, such as implementing new systems or improving processes. • Provide objective insights and fresh perspectives to identify blind spots and optimize strategies. • Mentor internal teams, leaving behind improved skills, processes, and systems to build lasting value.   An interim professional can lay down the foundation for future-driven plans, effectively onboard a successor, and ensure a seamless handover before stepping out. With a network established since 2005, SCM Executives connects manufacturing companies, trading firms, and logistics service providers to leaders who bring clarity, direction, and cohesion to your operations.   Is it time to rethink interim management as a vital part of your talent strategy? Let’s discuss how SCM Executives can support your next move.

𝗦𝗖𝗠 𝗘𝘅𝗲𝗰𝘂𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗲𝘀 𝗾𝘂𝗮𝗿𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗹𝘆 𝗖𝗦𝗥 𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗻𝘁: 𝗟𝗲𝘁'𝘀 𝗣𝗿𝗶𝗸 𝗧𝗼𝗴𝗲𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿   Yesterday, the SCM Executives team stepped out for our quarterly CSR event. This quarter it was “Let's Prik Together.” Each quarter, we join forces on a new project to support our community, and this time, we focused on cleaning up the neighbourhood. It’s always rewarding to step out and make a positive impact together, and we’re already looking forward to the next one! Stay tuned for our upcoming CSR projects as we continue to do our part for a cleaner, greener community.