Women in Logistics

Ruth Webb, P.Log.
Director, Customs & Traffic
Danier Leather Inc.

TLI: What is your background?

Having worked in logistics for over 30 years, I am currently the Director of Customs and Traffic for Danier Leather Inc. The first 15 years were with freight forwarders and customs brokers. My first position was a bond advice note typist, but over time I was appointed to coordinator, supervisor and finally manager.

I have been fortunate to work in a variety of departments, including Imports, Exports, Air, Ocean, Rail, Truck, and Customs. These companies provided in-house training and encouraged me take industry related courses. In later years I moved into the private industry, where I could change my focus from managing specific functions to integrated logistics.

TLI: Education and Qualifications?

P.Log., Professional Logistician Certification - The Logistics Institute
CCS, Certified Customs Specialist - Canadian Society of Customs Brokers
CITT, Canadian Institute of Traffic and Transportation, honoured with the Ian R. McCarten Award
Dangerous Goods Certificate
IATA/FIATA Diploma

TLI: Walk us through your career journey. Did you plan on this career or happen into it?

I did not plan a career in logistics. After high school I applied for a typist position at one of the Toronto Airport freight forwarders. I enjoyed the fast pace and challenges of moving shipments around the world. I had excellent mentors and as my experience and knowledge advanced, I was promoted to senior positions. Carriers and Government Agencies also provided in-house programs on their processes and procedures.

I took every opportunity to work with different modes of transport at different facilities, and handle different types of products. This experience included on-board observations of aircraft, container and break-bulk vessel loading. I am intrigued about the detailed mechanics in the supply chains - moving objects from different origins to mid-points to destinations, and its different rules and challenges along the way. The educational courses and professional certifications validated the practical skills learned. With these designations I took on a more lucrative and engaging career in private industry.

TLI: What is your current role and what are your responsibilities within this role?

As Director of Customs and Traffic for Danier Leather Inc., I am responsible for international traffic operations, along with Customs Clearance and Compliance for Danier's products and business practices.

TLI: What kind of company is Danier Leather Inc.?

Danier Leather Inc. is a leading designer, manufacturer, and retailer of high-quality leather and suede clothing and accessories. They have recently expanded their line of products to include fabric outerwear and co-ordinates.

TLI: How has the business changed since you have joined?

Since I joined the company in 2002, the logistics and customs operations have significantly changed. I was hired as a manager to develop a Customs & Traffic Department. My job was to provide staff with operational know-how for international traffic and ensure Danier was Customs Compliant with its clearances and procedures.

After two years of changes and significant cost savings I was promoted to Director. Since then, new product lines, countries of import and export have been added to Danier's business. The mandates continue to grow, along with the requirement for speed, flexibility, accuracy, and cost efficiency. We continue to employ different modes of transport, service routes and levels to reduce transit times and transportation costs. Danier has also successfully completed two Canada Customs Multi-Verification Compliance Audits in the past 6 years.

TLI: How has earning the P.Log. Certification impacted your career and has it made you a more competitive candidate in the logistics supply chain field?

The P.Log Certification has proven to be a vital factor for my career advancement. Having this designation was a prerequisite for my position with Danier. The knowledge attained and maintained is utilized in our supply chain operations. I am also confident that it gives me an advantage.

TLI: How does the training received from the Logistics Institute complement other training you have received?

The training from the Logistics Institute reinforces and enhances the information learned from other courses/programs. The P.Log. modules provide distinctive skills and when combined together provide practical systems with the managerial knowledge to run them.

TLI: What is the most challenging aspect of your work? What strategies have you developed for tackling that challenge?

One of the most challenging aspects of logistics is the unexpected. Planning, timing, and precision are at the heart of my work. I analyze all probabilities, and prepare strategies for potential issues, including back-up or alternative plans. Working with a strong logistics team and dedicated, astute business partners is essential to control the unexpected.

TLI: Would you recommend logistics as a career choice?

I would recommend logistics as an excellent career choice for a person who is detailed oriented, interested in supply chain management and enjoys working in an environment of constant change. There are numerous career opportunities in a variety of specialized positions. An education in logistics in addition to work experiences, can lead to career advancement in any industry.

TLI: Success Factors?

Working for freight forwarders and customs brokers has provided me with the fundamentals and interest to succeed in logistics. The knowledge gained from programs like the P.Log., enabled me to hone the indispensable skills necessary to manage and implement logistic principles and strategies.

The private industry has provided the medium for these implementations along with financial rewards. I continue to update my skills by maintaining active memberships, participating in educational seminars/conferences and in job related committees.

TLI: Favorite quote or words to live by?

I am a perfectionist. Whether it is in my paintings, stained glass hobbies or in my logistics career, I always strive to find a better technique and a keen understanding of the medium I am working with.

My favourite quote is from Will A. Foster: "Quality is never an accident;
it is always the result of high intention, sincere effort, intelligent direction and skillful execution;
it represents the wise choice of many alternatives."

Ruth M. Webb, CITT, P.Log, CCS
Director of Customs & Traffic
Tel: 416-762-8175 ext 492
Fax: 416-762-0365
Email: ruthwebb@danier.com
www.danier.com