Determined, excited, enthusiastic & totally motivated – An interview with Claudia Armitage

15 September 2014

Here Claudia talks about her role as Allseas’ regional sales executive for the north of England and Scotland.

Q: Tell us about your career with Allseas Global Logistics so far.

Claudia: I joined Allseas two-and-a-half years ago. Before that, I was working in the family manufacturing business, where I gained a lot of experience – while also studying for my degree in International Business in the evenings. I decided it was time to set out on my own, and Allseas gave me a great opportunity. I started off working in documentation and answering the phones, and I learned an amazing amount about the business. Since then, I have taken on other responsibilities, and now I am settled into my role as regional sales executive for the north of England and Scotland.

Q: What area do you cover?

Claudia: I cover from Liverpool across to Sheffield and Hull, and everything north of there! This is a region that’s really buzzing, particularly along the M62 corridor. Manufacturing people are rolling up their sleeves, expanding fast and exporting around the world. The manufacturing base in the region is massive and a lot of businesses are really kicking off now.

Q: Plenty of driving, then?

Claudia: Yes, I am frequently on the road meeting manufacturers and other customers and explaining how Allseas can help them, particularly as UK exports continue to pick up. It’s so important to get to know the manufacturers, understand their needs – really connect with the people at the sharp end.

Q: And what’s the key message?

Claudia: Obviously Allseas handles all types of freight, including containerised. But it’s breakbulk, project and out-of-gauge cargoes that we really specialise in. Breakbulk is such a bespoke area. We have the undoubted advantage of owning our own specialist equipment – flat racks and open tops – as well as a team that really know what they are doing. Interestingly, the M62 actually has a rest area designated for out-of-gauge consignments, which reflects how important that sector is. We are busy moving turbines, tunnel boring machinery, yachts, oil & gas equipment, food processing equipment and a range of other machinery.

Q: How do you see the next few months shaping up?

Claudia: Well, we don’t seem to have quiet weeks in the Allseas office! We are building and expanding, and I am very proud of that. We have the motivation, and so many good minds in the company. It is all coming together. We are not just a sales team, but individuals who really care about the things that matter – service, quality and attention to detail.

Q: What would your advice be to anyone coming into our industry?

Claudia: When I joined Allseas two-and-a-half years ago, I was determined to learn as much as I could about the business. You can only be successful in sales if you know your trade inside out. You need to spend time learning all the processes and operational side. The last thing you want to do is go to see a customer and not know what you are talking about. Succeeding in this business is about your attitude and how you approach things. Be confident, know your stuff and go out of your way to make things easier for your customers.

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