SBS Worldwide Ltd is a privately owned UK company which has been offering diverse solutions and client driven freight forwarding services for nearly 30 years. The company has facilities in the UK, the US and China, as well as strategic relationships with partners around the world.

It has invested in the development and use of innovative information technologies to drive costs out of its customers’ supply chains and was recently awarded the IFW Freight Forwarder of the Year Award for the development of its eDC (electronic distribution centre) supply chain software for the publishing industry. SBS has also just been awarded the BIFA Ocean Freight Award for helping its clients cut costs through shipping fewer containers.

What’s the most exciting thing about your job?

I enjoy the diversity of my role as Chairman of SBS and the chance to be part of a team that’s creative, innovative and able to come up with solutions.

Who inspired you most in your career?

Being born in Liverpool, football does inevitably feature highly in my interests. Bill Shankly is a famous Liverpool Manager from the 1960s/early 1970s and as I have his photograph on my study wall at home it has to be him. It isn’t just about his huge personality but about his skill in seeing ability at a lower level, bringing players up to a level to play for Liverpool, going on to become International players and in some cases world class players. That is an ability that is often not considered in the emotion of football and something I try to bring to SBS.

If you were an item in a warehouse, what would you be?

To ensure longevity of life I would be a security machine, unfortunately an absolutely necessary piece of equipment now and for years going forward.

What brought you to this industry?

I became bored working in insurance in the City. I was offered the chance to come into freight forwarding and after nearly 40 years it’s finally sunk in what it’s all about!

If you had to do it all over again, what would you do different?

I have no regrets. I have come to various decision-making crossroads and I always felt I made the right choice.

What’s your favourite pastime?

I have three major interests all beginning with “F” – freight, family and football – but not necessarily in that order.

What’s the most embarrassing thing that’s ever happened to you?

I once did a sales call visiting some old battleaxe who I was determined to win over. In front of her staff, for no reason I can ever explain, when introducing myself to her I gave her a kiss on the lips!

Do you have any hidden talents?

I can use a blackberry in the dark.

Who would be your favourite party guest?

Someone who’s got freight and doesn’t know they need to use SBS!

What is the greatest luxury in your life?

Having support around me that makes me look good.

If you won the Lottery, what would you do?

I would be absolutely stunned as I don’t buy a ticket.

Who or what makes you laugh?

As I travel I always download comedy material rather than being force fed airline movies. One of the funniest comedians I have seen in a long time is Kevin Bridges from Glasgow.

Do you have any secret ambitions?

For SBS to be the main sponsor of Liverpool Football Club.

What’s your favourite holiday destination?

I always mix holidays with business. I went to New Zealand two years ago for the first time following dialogue with a New Zealand Forwarder and we now have weekly air consolidations which gives me another opportunity to visit there.

What’s your favourite music album?

Abbey Road by the Beatles.

What’s your favourite movies?

Anything that isn’t scary!

What’s your favourite book?

Any thriller which can while away time when travelling.

Who or what do you detest the most?

I detest overzealous airline security guards who put the old and infirm through the same stripping down procedures as the rest of us.

What would be your advice to someone thinking about coming into the industry (apart from “don’t do it”)?

If you’re prepared for variety, you have the ability to think on your feet and are prepared to work harder than you imagined possible, then you have the opportunity of having a wonderfully diverse career which takes you around the world.

If you would like to take part in this feature call 01923 272960 we have spaces available, to get involved call today!

2 Comments

  1. Dinesh Prakash

    Great guy… Nice to know you and have met you..
    God bless.. Dinesh