S. Ramakrishna’s journey from aspiring Army officer to a logistics industry stalwart showcases resilience, innovation, and leadership. His achievements, like pioneering containerisation and contributing to ICEGATE, have left an indelible mark on India’s cargo and logistics sector.
Managing diverse stakeholders in logistics requires clear work demarcation and regulatory understanding
S. Ramakrishna, Managing Director, Balaji Mariline; Past Chairman, FFFAI, began his logistics journey with an unexpected twist. Originally aspiring to join the Army, his path changed after he failed the medical exam. This setback led him to a prominent bridge construction company, a key player in exporting men, machines, and raw materials to West Asia and the Gulf. Despite initially lacking awareness of the logistics industry’s scale, Ramakrishna embraced this new direction with enthusiasm. Since May 3, 1977, his career in logistics has been a testament to his unwavering commitment to the industry, exemplifying dedication, innovation, and a lasting impact on the logistics sector.
Innovative contributions
Ramakrishna’s career is marked by significant contributions that have left a lasting impact on the logistics industry. His involvement with ICEGATE from its inception and his innovative approach to industrial goods packaging, particularly in the automobile sector, demonstrate his forward-thinking mindset. By introducing shrink wrapping techniques, Ramakrishna revolutionised packaging practices, optimising container capacity and reducing costs. His initiatives not only benefited the companies he worked with but also set new standards for the industry.
Leadership legacy
As past Chairman of FFFAI, S. Ramakrishna achieved remarkable milestones, notably organising the first FIATA World Congress in India. This landmark event, with over 1,200 international and national participants, was a significant success for both FFFAI and India. Supported by various government ministries, it highlighted its importance in logistics. Ramakrishna credits the success to the collective efforts of all office-bearers and Executive Committee members. The record-breaking participation at the FIATA World Congress underscores his effective collaborative leadership and establishes a solid foundation for future successes in the logistics industry.
Effective collaboration was a cornerstone of Ramakrishna’s management approach at FFFAI. He understood the complexities of diverse regulatory frameworks, ensuring seamless coordination among associations involved in various logistics activities. By emphasising close collaboration with all stakeholders, particularly in policy matters, Ramakrishna fostered unity and drove continuous improvements in logistics practices. His strategic approach not only enhanced industry cohesion but also facilitated ongoing advancements in the sector.
Advice to young professionals
Ramakrishna advises young logistics professionals to study the law thoroughly rather than relying solely on online sources. He encourages active participation in seminars and webinars, stressing the importance of documenting key learnings for future reference. For those in management or family-owned businesses, he suggests envisioning future industry trends and sharing insights through logistics magazines to gain valuable exposure and credibility. This approach will help build a strong foundation for a successful career in logistics.
