It is just over two years since Shohan Hirani joined Palletline Logistics’ graduate training programme, and already he finds himself ahead of his own career goals after recently being appointed Business Development Manager.
Although he is still only on the first few rungs of his career ladder, Shohan has built a wealth of experience in a short space of time, working across different departments and in different depots as well as working directly with customers.
Shohan, from Romford in Essex, joined the scheme after completing his masters degree in Mechanical Engineering in 2021. During a short stint in recruitment at Amazon immediately after his degree he developed a keen interest in logistics and began exploring his options in the field.
The 18-month programme allows graduates like Shohan to experience every element of the Palletline Logistics organisation, receiving hands-on training as they move through various areas of the business. Upon completion they achieve valuable qualifications such as ADR and CPC and are given the opportunity to settle into a long-term role in an area of the business they feel is the best fit for them and their skill sets.
Shohan’s first placement was with S&S Distribution – one of Palletline Logistics’ largest companies – where he spent half his time working in the customer service department before moving on to the traffic team.
He later joined Palletline’s Business Information Team in the Birmingham hub. It was here that Shohan worked on what he describes as his biggest achievement for Palletline to date.
Over three months Shohan worked on the development of an algorithm to help Palletline’s day shift to tip economy freight.
Seeing the project through from beginning to end, Shohan designed the algorithm to optimise trailer bay selections, directing the 50 – 60 stand trailers carrying eco freight into the hub on where to park in order to save time and distance covered by the forklift trucks.
The system, which is still in use, has helped shave off at least 30 minutes from the daytime operation.
From here, Shohan used his new-found skills to help network member Fast Forward, on a full-time, temporary placement in the Pembroke Dock HQ of customer Genpower, acting in a customer service and consultancy role. He later spent some time with Palletline Logistics member ABE Ledbury.
This varied experience has stood Shohan in good stead for his latest challenge as Business Development Manager. Within the first few weeks of his new role he visited every one of the eight Palletline Logistics businesses, meeting the team, understanding their operations and their commercial goals, including how many customers they have and the type of customers they target.
He said: “Moving into a commercial role is both a daunting and exciting opportunity. I know the experience I have gained over the past couple of years is going to be of huge benefit and will give me the confidence to comfortably talk to prospective customers.
“My journey so far has been amazing and I am incredibly grateful of the support I have received from Paul Elson, Palletline Logistics’ Managing Director, and the Palletline Logistics team as a whole who have helped me along the way.
“I am in a much more senior role than I ever thought I would be.
“Eighteen months ago, I was picking up the phone in customer services and now I’m Business Development Manager. I feel very fortunate and am looking forward to embracing my new role.”
Paul Elson said: “Shohan has come a very long way in a very short space of time. In that time we’ve seen him master fresh challenges and grow in confidence. He is a prime example of how we nurture young talent, helping them to grow and develop at a fast and exciting pace, keeping them focused and engaged and ensuring each day is varied and interesting and all part of a rewarding journey.”
