Team Baxter from the very start.
This year we’re celebrating 10 years of Baxter Freight (yes 10 whole years!) and the people that’ve been with us from the very beginning, who’ve grown with us, and seen the developments across the past decade.
Think back to 2014…
Well for Jamie, that’s quite easy – he was starting his career at Baxter Freight!
From starting his career as a Sales Manager, to developing and nurturing our road freight products, to now, being an Associate Director leading our Accelerate team, it’s fair to say that Jamie has had plenty of experience within all aspects of a supply chain!
We chatted about Jamie’s experiences in logistics, and what’s led him to where he is now…
Congratulations on your 10 year anniversary! How does that feel?
J – Honestly, it feels like I started yesterday – I can’t believe it’s been 10 years! Reflecting on the journey I feel extremely grateful and have an overwhelming sense of accomplishment on everything which has happened this past decade. It’s been such a rewarding experience filled with variety and being able to engage with so many people along the way.
You’ve been a key figure in helping build our network of trusted suppliers, how did you go about creating that at as a new business?
J – It sounds simple, but when we first started, I remember talking about the idea of travelling to Dover and truck spotting, to see all the different suppliers out there! The key was as it still is today, hard work – engaging through various communication channels with all levels across our own and the supplier’s business. Our brand had no history, so we had to build credibility and lay strong foundations to enable us to move forward and create a mutually beneficial relationship with companies throughout the UK and Europe. We gradually expanded the pool of suppliers we work with, and over the years have created some solid bonds. Being authentic and transparent is really important to us, and being so with our suppliers, we were able to build a collaboration where everybody wins.
What goes into building relationships with our suppliers?
J – Meeting in person is key. Over the years I’ve travelled across the UK and Europe to meet with suppliers and to build relationships. These experiences gave me the opportunity to meet a variety of people, to gain a detailed understanding of their business and business goals. This provides an easier way forward, as there is a clear understanding on how we could successfully work together. Meeting our suppliers in-person provides a deeper understanding of how the market operates and how to adapt when needed, and ensures we can create the best possible solutions, which fit the needs of both our customers and suppliers.
What should more people know about what Baxter Freight offer?
J – That everything we do is led by our values. We’re a logistics partner that you can always rely on, and we genuinely care about your business. Things can go wrong in logistics, but when they do, we own it and go the extra mile to ensure that we always find the perfect solution for your needs. I also think more people need to understand the strength of our sales floor – we’ve got a team of 40 dedicated Account Managers, who act as an extension of your own sales force, helping to bring more exposure to your business.
How has your role developed during your time at Baxter Freight?
J – When I started, I joined as a Sales Manager and did that for around a year. After that, I worked closely with our Managing Director, Peter, working on all aspects both commercially and operationally in trying to develop our European product and our groupage solution. It was during this time that I began to get an interest in operations, and I was asked to lead the European Operations side of the business. Up until then my career had been quite sales-led, so it was really interesting to get the opportunity to put both my sales and operational mindset together for the benefit of the wider business.
You just mentioned about becoming an Associate Director, how did it feel when you received that news?
J – Honestly, it was all I wanted ever since I first started. When I got the news, I was completely made up, it was actually quite emotional! It was something I knew I was capable of achieving, I just had to keep working hard and be patient.
Are there any lessons you learned in your first few years here that you still use in your role as Associate Director now?
J – Definitely setting expectations. I used to try to handle everything myself, but in reality, that’s just not possible. When you collaborate with other people, you’re able to maximise each other’s strengths and find the best solutions.
What’s something working in logistics has taught you?
J – When I was younger, I never saw myself working in logistics, but now that I’m in it, I couldn’t see myself not! I’ve learned how so many aspects of logistics are present within our daily lives. From being cost effective, to problem-solving, everyone does logistics! I’ve been able to speak with so many different people across the globe and learned how important relationships are within everything we do.
What advice would you give to yourself 10 years ago?
J – Don’t run before you can walk! Take all the time you have to learn, listen, and absorb all the knowledge you can. Also, I’d remind myself that relationships take time and consistency, and they’re something you constantly need to work on from both sides.
With you for all your logistical needs
Within just 10 years Baxter Freight has grown from working out of our founder’s home, to a modern office in Nottingham with over 140 staff!
We’ve been able to develop relationships with our customers, suppliers, agents, hauliers, and most importantly, each other.
The partnerships we’ve grown along the way have helped shape the way we operate and the solutions we’re able to offer.
To everyone who has been on our journey so far – thank you! Here’s to the next 10 years of providing innovative solutions with the highest level of service.
We’re here to support you with any logistical requirements you have – from customs to sustainability and everything in between.
Click below to find out how we can make your supply chain your competitive advantage!
