BIFA Awards
A multilinguist with a deep passion for freight
implementation of a new software system for the export and transit departments at Avocet Clearance – including testing the system, training colleagues and creating quick- reference guides to help them adapt. Veronika was promoted from customs broker to export supervisor in January 2026. She teaches interns and new starters the processes, which can be client- speci fi c and quite specialised. “I take real satisfaction in being able to share my knowledge and see others progress,” she said. Her priority for now is to settle into the role of export supervisor; later on, she would like to progress into a senior freight forwarding or operations role and continue to mentor new team members. Solving problems Describing freight as a career, Veronika said: “When I fi rst entered this industry, I had no previous experience, but I quickly realised how much I enjoyed the work. “Over time, that curiosity turned into genuine passion. I love the pace of the environment, the teamwork involved, and especially the satisfaction of solving problems. There is nothing more rewarding than fi nding a solution to a complex issue or seeing a shipment through to its successful completion.” But she is well aware of the need to manage the pressures of the job. “You need to switch off after work because this industry is so fast and your brain is constantly on. For me, I love to read, I’m a huge cinema fan, and I’ve been playing piano since I was fi ve years old. I love that you can just switch off and enjoy the music.” World Insurance is a world-leading provider of insurance services for the logistics industry. By sharing knowledge and fostering innovation, it nurtures the next generation of logistics leaders and safeguards all. As the designated in-house risk management advisor for all WCAworld networks, it is committed to helping advance the future of global logistics. APPRENTICE OF THE YEAR AWARD
Veronika Litterova fi rst came to the UK to study politics and modern history at the University of Manchester. She fell in love with the city, stayed on after her degree, and was recognised as the 2025 BIFA Apprentice of the Year
W hile appreciating the value of her degree, Veronika Litterova is clear that her success in logistics rests on the apprenticeship she subsequently completed. “I feel I have a future in this industry and that wouldn’t be possible without the apprenticeship. It gives you con fi dence because it’s so specialised,” she said, highlighting the scheme’s direct applicability to the realities of logistics. But doing well in freight goes beyond knowledge of the supply chain: Veronika’s abilities to solve problems and multi-task (not least in juggling her apprenticeship with work) impressed the judges. However, she said: “Where I naturally stand out is in building relationships with clients. I genuinely enjoy speaking with people, understanding their businesses, and fi nding solutions that make their day-to-day operations easier.” Language skills are another asset. Veronika is fl uent in both Czech and Slovak, and also has French, English and even Latin under her belt. “I have the basics of Mandarin and I want to learn more – it’s exciting and completely different to the other languages I speak,” she added. Her language skills enable Veronika to communicate easily with Czech and Slovakian drivers, and there are enough similarities between Czech and Polish to allow conversation with Polish drivers too, if need be. “Our company works mainly in the European market so it’s useful to
Above: Music is the perfect way for Veronika to switch off after a hectic day. Below: Veronika takes great satisfaction in sharing her experience with others
“ There is nothing more rewarding than finding a solution to a complex issue or seeing a shipment through to its successful completion
know these languages – and also to understand the nuances of different nationalities,” she pointed out. Among Veronika’s achievements is the role she played in the smooth
April 2026 | 19
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