Tom Owen’s Perspective on the Air Cargo Industry

Introduction

Exploring the insights of Tom Owen, a notable figure in air cargo, reveals compelling experiences and observations on the evolution and machinations within the industry. With a wealth of knowledge acquired through years in various leadership roles, Owen provides a unique glimpse into the air cargo sector’s dynamic environment.

Career Overview

As the Director of Cargo at Cathay, Tom Owen takes the reins of Cathay Cargo alongside its global business units, overseeing critical areas including Cargo Commercial, Cargo Planning, and Cargo Service Delivery. His responsibilities extend to managing Air Hong Kong, Global Logistics Systems, and the Cathay Cargo Terminal. Since joining the Swire Group in 1995, he has held several senior positions, enriching his understanding of sales, revenue management, logistics, and regional strategies. Before his current role, Owen served as Cathay’s Director of People.

Memorable Moments in Air Cargo

Reflecting on his journey in the industry, Owen recalls the launch of the Cathay Cargo brand as a standout experience. The relaunch was accompanied by a striking presentation featuring a painted aircraft in a hangar, marking a special moment in his career—a real “hats off to teamwork” scenario!

Childhood Dreams and Industry Evolution

Interestingly, Tom Owen’s childhood aspirations included becoming a zookeeper, driven by a desire to conserve wildlife and return animals to their natural habitats. However, his path took a turn towards the air cargo sector, where he has witnessed significant transformations, particularly through digitisation. The reliance on data in recent years has reshaped operations and efficiency in the industry.

Unique Shipments

When discussing the most unusual items shipped, Owen mentions an array of fascinating shipments, including possums, manatees, otters, and monkeys. These extraordinary examples highlight the diverse challenges and responsibilities faced by air cargo professionals.

Personal Preferences

Regarding travel preferences, Owen leans toward the window seat, allowing a view that enhances the flying experience and connects him to the journey. In terms of exciting work locations, he mentions Tierra del Fuego, particularly due to its salmon fishery and business opportunities.

Regulatory Insights

If he could propose a new regulation for the air cargo industry, Owen humorously suggests introducing a rule for fewer regulations altogether, emphasizing the balance needed in policy-making to foster growth without hindering progress.

Leisure and Personal Growth

Beyond professional engagements, Owen indulges in karaoke, often singing “Viva La Vida” by Coldplay. When asked to summarize his job in three words, he chooses “exciting, dynamic, and people,” reflecting the lively interactions within the industry.

Aspirations and Advice

Owen shares that walking the Pacific Crest Trail remains on his bucket list, revealing an adventurous spirit that parallels his professional journey. If he could instantly master any skill, it would be kitesurfing, indicating a love for the outdoors. A piece of advice that resonates with him is, “You are not your thoughts,” encouraging a mindset focused on growth and resilience.

Achievements and Role Models

Owen’s proudest moments align with Cathay Cargo’s successful results in business, while he expresses no significant regrets. His role model is a Zen Buddhist monk, Thich Nhat Hanh, whose philosophies have influenced his worldview.

Surprising Background

Surprisingly, Owen’s background includes service in the British military with the Brigade of Gurkhas, a detail often hidden in formal resumes, showcasing a rich tapestry of experiences that informs his current role.

Conclusions and the Future of Air Cargo

With the air cargo landscape continuously evolving, Tom Owen’s insights underscore the need for agility in operations and adaptability in response to changing market conditions. The role of technology and customer-centered approaches are critical for future success.

The Link to Logistics

Understanding perspectives from seasoned professionals like Owen can greatly impact logistics strategies. As demand for versatile transportation solutions grows, platforms like GetTransport.com provide affordable, reliable services. Catering to office and home moves, as well as bulky deliveries, GetTransport.com is positioned to meet diverse logistics needs seamlessly.

Summary

In summary, Tom Owen’s experiences and insights reflect a vibrant sector driven by innovation and a commitment to excellence. From launching new brands to navigating unique challenges, his journey illustrates the importance of adaptability and informed decision-making in logistics. With GetTransport.com, anyone can tap into efficient, cost-effective transportation solutions globally, making their logistics smoother and more reliable. For those looking for ease, variety, and affordability, consider what GetTransport.com can offer. Book your cargo transportation now at GetTransport.com.