In the annals of industry lore, Poroma Munshi Rebello’s tale unfolds. From maritime beginnings to pioneering private sector milestones, her journey embodies resilience and foresight. Embracing challenges, she shapes the industry’s future.
Poroma adeptly managed diverse stakeholders, fostering collaboration and alignment
Poroma Munshi Rebello, President Business Development, Pristine Logistics & Infraprojects, journey through the intricate realm of logistics and cargo is a testament to dedication, expertise, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. With a career spanning over two decades, Poroma’s professional narrative unfolds against the backdrop of the maritime sector, where she initially embarked her journey with American President Lines (APL). Rising from an entry-level position, Poroma’s trajectory within APL took her across geographies, from the bustling hub of APL Dubai, UAE, to assuming the role of Regional Director, North and West Region, APL India.
Her tenure at APL India was marked by significant milestones, including overseeing 75 percent of the Indian market’s P&L responsibilities, encompassing pivotal ports like Nhava Sheva, Mundra, and Pipavav, along with managing a network of 40 Inland Container Depots (ICD) and Container Freight Stations (CFS) sprawled across India’s vast hinterland. Transitioning from APL, Poroma ventured into the private container train sector, assuming the role of Director Commercial at India Infrastructure and Logistics (IndiaLinx), a subsidiary of APL Logistics.
Fearlessly connecting with collaborators and competitors alike, she facilitates discussions with stakeholders of all sizes
Presently, as the President of Business Development at Pristine Logistics & Infraprojects, Poroma stands at the helm of one of India’s foremost multi-modal logistics conglomerates. Pristine Logistics, under Poroma’s leadership, has emerged as a powerhouse, orchestrating the seamless handling and transportation of international and domestic cargo, spanning the breadth of India from Ludhiana in the north to Tuticorin in the south.
The logistics sector, often operating discreetly behind the scenes, harbours complexities and intricacies that shape global commerce. Despite its pivotal role in sustaining supply chains and driving economies, the sector remains largely underappreciated and often overlooked. Poroma’s journey encapsulates the transformative power of logistics, where each endeavour and challenge has moulded her into the astute professional, she is today. From deciphering maritime documentation laws to fostering a hands-on approach in the field, Poroma’s journey exemplifies resilience, adaptability, and an unyielding commitment to excellence in the dynamic realm of logistics and cargo.
Dynamic leadership
Her journey boasts significant milestones, notably fostering the private sector’s emergence in the Container Train Operator (CTO) and Inland Container Depot (ICD) spaces. Initially disruptive, the shift from public sector reliance proved fruitful, yielding a vibrant array of private enterprises. Today, these entities infuse the industry with cost efficiencies and operational dynamism, granting customers unprecedented logistics provider choices. Additionally, Poroma led the groundbreaking initiative of rail pool operations for private container train operators in India. This innovation drastically improved capacity utilisation, reduced operational costs, and substantially enhanced overall customer satisfaction under her astute leadership.
Unity advocate
Poroma adeptly managed diverse stakeholders, fostering collaboration and alignment. Fulfilment and frustration were part of her journey, yet she embraced challenges with a team-centric approach. Never a loner, she believed in the power of collective effort, echoing Vince Lombardi’s sentiment on teamwork. For her, individual commitment to the group was paramount, driving success in any setting. Through her leadership, Poroma became a catalyst for unity, inspiring collaboration, and achieving remarkable results.
Synergist
An adept alliance architect, Poroma fosters robust industry relationships. Fearlessly connecting with collaborators and competitors alike, she facilitates discussions with stakeholders of all sizes. Prioritising equitable and amicable solutions, Poroma emphasises discussion, trust, and transparency. Recognising networking as an invaluable skill, she underscores its significance in building enduring professional connections.
Logisticscape
Poroma, a logistics visionary, shares insights on the dynamic cargo and logistics landscape. In India, unprecedented challenges demand innovative solutions, pushing professionals to think on their feet. Despite uncertainties, Poroma foresees continued industry growth driven by unyielding global demand. However, she acknowledges the formidable challenge of navigating international disruptions, which impact global supply chains. Situated strategically, India’s role at the nexus of long-haul ocean services amplifies the repercussions of such disruptions, highlighting the critical need for resilience and adaptability in the logistics sector.
Mentorship
Poroma, a beacon in the industry, advises aspiring professionals to embrace challenges, eschew shortcuts, and prioritise substantive growth. Active engagement trumps passive observation, she asserts, urging diverse experiences and cross-functional training. Cultivating a multifaceted skill set is paramount in logistics, Poroma emphasises, advocating for receptivity to insights from all levels. With a nod to the industry’s allure, she acknowledges its magnetic pull, often entrapping individuals within its dynamic embrace.
