In it for the long haul
In a world where job-hopping has become the norm and people even have several different careers in a lifetime, global logistics company DACHSER has an unusually large number of staff who have built long term logistics careers within the company. Kurt Aufschneider has now been working in Air & Sea Logistics for over 46 years, having joined DACHSER at 17. This makes him one of the longest-serving employees in the family company which has offices in 44 countries, including South Africa. He recalls company founder Thomas Dachser giving him some unforgettable advice: “Good prep work means less re-work.” It is a motto he has lived by ever since.
In Germany, where Aufschneider is based, over 10 percent of the 16 300 employees have been at the company for more than 20 years. At DACHSER South Africa, founded as family business Jonen Freight by Hartmut Duve before being acquired by DACHSER in 2011, over 15 percent of the employees have been with the company for more than 15 years, most of them more than 20. DACHSER SA celebrates 40 years of being in business this November.
We value the loyalty our staff have shown through the years, and we focus on giving everyone opportunities to gain skills and grow. The experience and in-depth knowledge of logistics in Africa, our new systems and our clients’ needs is essential to the business. They create and sustain the family business culture we’re proud of at DACHSER, and the long-term personal relationships we have with our clients.
Detlev Duve, Managing Director DACHSER South AfricaSera Fineberg, the Branch Manager Air and Sea logistics at DACHSER in Johannesburg has been with the company since 1991 and is one of South Africa’s longest serving employees. She advanced from a sales role where she was tasked with expanding the logistics network of the then Jonen Freight beyond German route. Sera recalls that Hartmut Duve was always extremely positive and prepared to listen to ideas and support them. “He didn’t take nonsense – but inspired people and gave them opportunities. It was great to see the changes as our network grew and we signed on major accounts with clients who still trust as with their business. The hard work has been worth every minute for the recognition and the growth I’ve received.”
High standards and strong business ethics
Like many who pursue a career in logistics, Sera Fineberg describes herself as an adrenalin junkie and she loves the constant activity. She has stayed with DACHSER as she believes it is a great company to work for, and intends to remain until retirement. “DACHSER has high standards, strong business ethics and watertight compliance. I’m proud to have been a part of building the brand in South Africa in an industry that challenges you every day. It’s a real achievement to have built the reputation and the skilled staff that DACHSER has in South Africa. Corporate clients now come to us knowing the brand and stay with us for our exceptional service.”