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David Milne

Managing Director

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Over the years, I have proven myself as a senior leader with vast international logistics experience expanding from operations management to business development at a corporate level.

Having completed business degrees within International Physical Distribution and International Trade and Finance, my academic studies complement my extensive shipping and liner agency sector expertise. During my career, I have implemented successful customer services and operational procedures and processes for several notable liner agencies, including CMA CGM, CSAV/Norasia and Yang Ming Transportation Corp.

Additionally, my planning and management of the Expansion Program of KC Group Shipping have been integral to the growth and success of the company. This growth includes establishing Joint Venture Partnerships in Belgium and the USA and opening a new branch office within La Paz, Bolivia.

I maintained the position of Group Commercial Director for six years. During this period, year on year, EBIT growth has been both consistent and impressive, culminating with overseeing a Management Buy-Out of the group in 2016 and securing the position of Group Managing Director.

As Managing Director, I continue to develop business strategies, growth and relationships whilst upholding our group values.

My journey within the Global Logistics sector has been unique and best described by one word, Loyalty. In 1994 I began my journey with KC Group Shipping, having secured a work experience placement position, followed by a summer job that led to my first full-time job.

Twenty-seven years later, I have the great honour of leading a highly motivated team of logistics experts and overseeing the implementation of our 2025 growth objectives. I am in the privileged and unique place of holding numerous positions with the business, from Junior Operator, to Operations Manager, Agency Director, Commercial Director, to my current role of Managing Director.

Each position has allowed me to understand every aspect of the group. Despite the industry changing over the past two decades, my previous posts provide me with a clear understanding of the nuts and bolts within the KC Group Shipping structure.

“Find a job you love, and you will never work a day in your life” is often a phrase I repeat to myself and others. I can honestly say I genuinely love my job and the team I have the pleasure of leading. The team members of KC Group Shipping and our clients have a unique relationship. I continually ensure the bond within internal colleagues, clients, and partners is unbreakable, continuing to grow and adding value at every opportunity.

Identifying and implementing our core values allows everyone within the group to understand the history of the business and shape its future - developing the structure of KC Group Shipping and ensuring that together, we can 'beKC'.

Post Covid-19, in particular, has seen a significant change in global logistics, with technology now playing a vital role in supply chains - instant solutions, live visibility, and proactive decision making are essential to 21st century supply chains. Part of my role is to implement our client-facing live web portal "myKC". Our system will provide 24/7 access to data management, cloud storage, and live tracking, which will enable clients and colleagues alike to make informed decisions using the latest technology and analytics. As with everything we do, this approach and system create honest and open relationships, delivering transparency in our operations and client relationships.

Although technology will undoubtedly enhance supply chains, there is no question that good old-fashioned customer service remains imperative to partner relationships - something our business is renowned for within the industry. As the leader of KC Group Shipping, my role is to deliver a hybrid solution that encompasses both, ensuring we provide best in class customer service and leading-edge technology.