14 August 2024

Q&A with Joe Rizk, Northlines Business Development Manager for International

Since joining the team in Sydney earlier this year, Joe Rizk, Business Development Manager – International – NSW, shares more about his time in the industry, and with Northline so far.

Joe explains that his passion for the international logistics industry was ignited back in the late 90s when he started his career in an operational role for a small freight forwarding company.

What attracted you to Northline, and the role?

What attracted me to Northline is the size and position of the company. I like the fact the Northline is a large enough company to be recognised nationally but still has massive growth potential with the international space. The role suits my skills sets and can offer me amazing personal growth opportunities in the future.

What type of industries/roles have you worked in before?

In my younger years, I had followed my family’s footpath and went into the construction industry, specifically as a tiler. Then in 1999 I was offered an operational role in a small freight forwarding company which ignited my passion for the international freight industry and then in 2007, I was offered a sales position at a large multinational freight forwarder which sparked my passion for Sales.

Can you describe your role?

As a Business Development Manager, my role is to grow Northline by identifying and winning new customers. The way I do this is by building relationships and trust with our prospects and offering them the solution that works best for them. I like to offer my customers a complete logistics package which includes tying in our national network and warehousing services.

What has been your favourite aspect since joining the business?

I can honestly say that my favourite aspect of the business has been building a close relationship with our NSW Sales and Account Management team. It’s always a pleasure to collaborate with them to secure new business.

More so, I am truly enjoying working close with General Manager, International Freight Management – Rob Baigent and our IFM team. Since visiting Adelaide for my induction, I feel we are all closer as a team.

What sets Northline apart from other logistics businesses?

The major factor that separates Northline from a traditional freight forwarder is our domestic transport and warehousing services. It is very rare to find a freight forwarder that also offers domestic transport, warehousing and 3PL services as one company. A lot of the industry rely on other third-party contractors to offer the additional services.