Greater collaboration, agility and investing in next generation professionals are critical for overcoming challenges and seizing opportunities in the supply chain, according to speakers at The Heavy Lift Group’s (THLG) 74th Annual Conference and AGM.
Under the theme, From Uncertainty to Opportunity: The Next Era of Global Trade, the 15 June event brought together members and guests from across THLG’s global network and the wider project logistics and heavy lift sector in The Hague.
THLG President, Elisabeth Cosmatos set the forward-looking agenda in her opening address by launching the THLG NextGen Initiative. A sector first, THLG NextGen aims to nurture next generation leaders within the heavy lift, project cargo and logistics industry.
An idea conceived by young THLG members, THLG NextGen has evolved into a structured programme that is supported by a formal charter, a framework for governance and a development roadmap. The strategic initiative will also work towards securing the future of the THLG network itself.
“Every successful organisation must think beyond the present,” commented Cosmatos. “NextGen is not only about supporting young professionals; it is about ensuring that the values, expertise and collaborative spirit that have defined THLG for decades continue to thrive through future generations. We are not simply launching a committee. We are investing in the future leadership of our industry.”
The same dynamism was needed to deal with the current operating environment, said Cosmatos. While uncertainty may be shaping global trade, she stressed that it is also creating opportunities for those with resilience, ingenuity and a solution-first focus.
Collaboration and the agility to adapt to change were also critical, with these themes infusing a conference agenda which included thought-provoking discussions on the complexities of international trade and project logistics today.
Programme highlights included a keynote address from Jaap Gebraad, Secretary General of the Waterborne Technology Platform, which captured the realities businesses face in an era of intense supply chain disruption.
Notable presentations included a Middle East market analysis from Laurance Langdon, General Manager, Modern Freight Company and a case study involving a 10,500+ kilometre cross-continental wind power logistics project from China to the Caucasus from Ildus Bariev, General Manager, Globalink Logistics. Also insightful was a candid fireside chat between Grant Bell, Partner and Operations Director, NMT Projects, and Janesh Gulati, Managing Director, Total Movements, providing regional perspectives from Australia and India on how trade has evolved over the years and its future outlook.
Panel discussions focused on collaboration as a catalyst for sector growth, geopolitics, regulation and how to create opportunities during times of transition.
As part of the AGM proceedings, this year’s event saw Donald Kinsella, President, KBB Transport Ltd, elected to the Executive Committee, with Colin D’Abreo stepping down as Treasurer after four years of dedicated service. Members also re-elected Elisabeth Cosmatos and Alessio Bianchi who will continue to serve as THLG President and Admissions Officer, respectively.
The group’s growing geographical reach was also in evidence, with the admission of six new members to THLG confirmed during the AGM, following a rigorous application and voting process. New members comprise: Dolezych from Germany, Mohab Logistics from Tunisia, Ultrabulk from Denmark, Tauruna from Indonesia, Hacklin International from China and RORO Shipping Company from Uruguay.
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