The Power of Longevity at Schenker UK & Ireland

In an industry characterised by rapid change and constant evolution, the stories of individuals who have dedicated decades to Schenker stand out as remarkable testaments to loyalty, growth, and the power of relationships. The experiences of long-serving employees like Shaun Gunn, who was with BAX Global before they were acquired by Schenker, and Hadyn Smith, who has dedicated 37 years to Schenker, illustrate the profound impact of longevity on both personal and organisational success.

With over a dozen colleagues at Schenker UK and Ireland who have worked with us for 30+ years, their stories are woven into the very fabric of the company.

Decades of Dedication

Shaun Gunn, who began his career as an air import clerk in Shannon in 1988, reflects on the variety of learning opportunities that have kept him engaged for over three decades. “Starting as an air import clerk, the first thing that I had to learn was customs brokerage. I can remember that being a challenging experience at the outset,” he emphasises how tackling complex processes, such as customs declarations, “instilled discipline, and precision” early on in his career.

Hadyn Smith, who joined the company at the age of seventeen and is based at London, Heathrow, describes the culture at Schenker that has fostered connection, loyalty and a sense of belonging throughout his career. “Longevity with any company really is based upon the leadership, the people within the organisation and the team that you work with, and I've been very fortunate to meet and work with some really wonderful colleagues across all continents over the years,” he notes.

Customer Champions

Just as internal relationships are key to success, Shaun and Hadyn are equally enthusiastic about the connections they build with customers. For them, being customer-centric means consistently striving to exceed expectations.

“We don’t just meet requirements – we challenge ourselves and our teams to go further, to deliver better,” says Shaun. “Our customers’ needs are at the heart of everything we do.”

And these are not just words. Whether it’s personally overseeing urgent shipments, jumping on calls to resolve issues, or proactively identifying process improvements, Shaun and Hadyn are known for leaning in when it matters most. They take time to understand each customer’s business - not just their brief, and that deeper insight allows them to offer tailored, often unexpected solutions.

“It is about listening, understanding, and responding with solutions that make a real difference,” Hadyn adds. “Our dedication shows in the way we approach every project – with energy, care, and a mindset geared toward excellence.”

Their colleagues often describe them as the kind of people who never say, “That’s not my job.” Instead, they show up with answers, initiative, and a genuine drive to help. From turning around last-minute operational requests to finding more efficient ways to move goods across borders, their ability to anticipate needs and act quickly has earned them lasting trust.

Shaun and Hadyn don’t just support their customers. They champion them.

One Team, One Goal

Both Shaun and Hadyn emphasise the importance of relationships in their longevity at Schenker. The camaraderie among colleagues and the trust established over years of collaboration create a sense of belonging that is hard to replicate. Shaun highlights the team spirit that he carries: “It is the people around you that make the difference. When everyone pulls together, that is when the job really gets done.”

Hadyn adds that building relationships extends beyond immediate teams, “Understanding the various functions within the organisation and knowing who to approach for support is crucial for success,” he explains. “The interconnectedness among colleagues not only enhances operational efficiency but also cultivates a powerful sense of community.”

Adapting to Change

In an industry that is constantly evolving, the ability to adapt is paramount. Shaun recalls the learning curve when transitioning from airfreight management to branch management, and the necessity of staying ahead: “Needing to learn quickly and focus on impactful work – that kind of discipline has carried through my career.”

Hadyn, now a team leader, encourages others to explore different roles until they find the right fit. “Try different roles until you find where you feel most comfortable, most happy – that’s how you find your place,” he advises.

The Impact of Technology

The evolution of technology has transformed the logistics industry, and both Shaun and Hadyn have witnessed these changes firsthand. Shaun notes, “Technology has streamlined communication and allowed for live tracking of shipments, but it has also raised the bar for customer service, with clients expecting instant responses and real-time updates.”

Hadyn acknowledges the balance between efficiency and interpersonal interaction, “While technology has made the world smaller and more connected, it has also changed the way we all communicate, allowing conversations to be had anywhere in the world through a screen.” He believes that having a balance between digital and face-to-face communication is key.

Guiding the Next Generation

As seasoned professionals, Shaun and Hadyn have valuable insights to share with newcomers to the logistics industry. Shaun emphasises to “Learn the bigger picture, not just your role. Understand how what you do contributes to the overall operation – it all connects.”

They both believe in the power of mentorship and the responsibility of experienced professionals to guide the next generation. “You can’t underestimate the importance of a mentor,” says Hadyn. “It’s not just about getting the job done today, it’s about passing the baton, making sure the next team is even better prepared than we were.”

Looking Ahead

The future of logistics is poised for further transformation, with advancements in automation and artificial intelligence set to redefine the industry landscape. Shaun envisions a future where data-driven decision-making enhances operational efficiency. Hadyn echoes this, recognising that while automation will manage many tasks, the human element of logistics will remain essential. “I can certainly see AI having a significant impact, reducing the need for manual processing, but ideally, it will also free up more time for us to focus on developing stronger customer relationships.”

Shaun and Hadyn’s stories serve as powerful reminders of the value of longevity in the workplace. Their knowledge and experiences at Schenker highlight the importance of exceeding customer expectations, relationships, adaptability, and a commitment to continuous learning.

In a world where change is the only constant, the enduring commitment of individuals like Shaun, Hadyn and many others, exemplifies the strength of loyalty and the profound impact of a supportive work culture. At Schenker, longevity is not just a statistic - it is a testament to the power of people and the relationships that drive success.

As we reflect on the theme of longevity, we give special recognition to colleagues who have each dedicated over 34 years to Schenker. Long-serving team members Janice Carter, Deborah Doak, Paul Pinches, Christopher Murrell, Jon Larter, Hadyn Smith, Frances Howkins, Gurdip Pattar, Andrew Conquest, Sean Pearce, Rita Exton, Philip Baxter, and Rosalind Meshkova exemplify outstanding commitment – a truly extraordinary achievement.

Congratulations to each of you. Your contribution is truly valued and continues to inspire us all.