BIFA Awards
A passion for problem-solving
Self-confessed ‘Customs nerd’ Ben Thompson was named a fi nalist in BIFA’s Young Freight Forwarder of the Year Award category in 2024
Young Freight Forwarder Award
Virgin Atlantic Cargo is proud to sponsor BIFA’s Young Freight Forwarder Award
P assionate about logistics in general, Ben Thompson is particularly interested in Customs because it involves solving problems – something he fi nds deeply rewarding. “It’s really satisfying when people come to me with a Customs problem and I can fi gure it out,” he said. For instance, while it has been hard for many in the industry to switch from CHIEF to CDS, Ben helped train his colleagues to make the change more seamless. Ben is now overseeing NNR Global Logistics UK’s growing European Roadfreight and Customs Brokerage departments. “With both posing very new challenges since Brexit, it has been exciting and also a privilege to have been trusted to take these new and developing teams forward,” he said. “I used to be quite shy about being so young as a supervisor. But at NNR, that’s embraced and celebrated. It doesn’t matter how old
getting involved in sales now; I can bring operational expertise to that. It breaks up the week, allows me to meet more people, and it involves more problem-solving.” Finally, he is keen to play his part in mentoring new recruits. He has himself employed three trainees – including BIFA Young Freight Forwarder of the Year (Highly Commended) Charlie Grif fi ths. to recognise and encourage the next generation of industry leaders. As well as rewarding the progress of the best young people, this award helps to highlight the vital role freight forwarders play in the growth and development of the industry. VAC recognises the importance of developing and retaining talented young people and is confident this award will help to attract more recruits that want to build a future career in a sector that is so important to the economy and international trade.
“ It’s really satisfying when people come to me with a Customs problem and I can fi gure it out
you are or how long you’ve worked in the industry: the attitude and knowledge you can offer are of far more importance.” Ben wants to become an operations manager or branch manager. In addition, he said: “I’m
A bright future in freight
APPRENTICE OF THE YEAR AWARD
ends and eventually take on a leadership role. Meanwhile, she said: “I do as much as I can to help new starters. I know how daunting it can be starting in such a big industry with zero knowledge, because that was me! “But I’m also helping people who have been here for a long time; at Cardinal, everyone shares what they know.” Menzies LLP provides financial and accounting expertise, combined with strategic commercial thinking. We understand your business via our in-depth sector knowledge and use a consultancy-led approach to challenge your objectives and guide your business growth. Each of our clients experiences our Brighter Thinking approach, the difference we make to our clients. With our in depth transport and logistics sector experience we promise to add real value across key areas of our clients’ businesses – to go further than just balancing the books.
As is common among young people, BIFA Apprentice of the Year fi nalist Keira Greenough knew little of freight – but now, she would choose a career in logistics every time
Having hated the routine of school, Keira Greenough was apprehensive about starting work, but has found the variety inherent in freight suits her perfectly. “There’s always something to learn and you can always get stuck in,” she said. “I’m in Customs clearance at the moment; that’s what I’m best at. I like that it’s all different; I get bored doing the same thing every day.” Keira’s confidence has blossomed during her time at Cardinal Global Logistics. She now has 12 of her own allocated clients, including Cardinal’s Aberdeen office. “I went from struggling to see a future for myself, to being a young woman with a career in an industry I love,” she said. “I
love getting to know my clients and building connections.” Her determination,
adaptability and resilience, as well as the supportive environment at Cardinal, are evident in Keira’s professional and personal growth thus far. She is keen to keep learning after her apprenticeship
20 | June 2025
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