JAS IN THE AMERICAS

Maria Paula Eslava's family owned a freight forwarding company in Colombia, but she felt her true passion lay elsewhere. While her parents moved to the United States, Maria chose to stay behind, determined to carve her own path. She pursued a degree in Marketing and Advertising, dreaming of one day working at a prestigious advertising agency in New York City.

While working through university, she joined the family business, taking a position in the Sales Department. Though it wasn't her chosen field, Maria approached the role with dedication and a positive attitude, viewing it as a stepping stone towards her ultimate goal.

That's when fate stepped in.

From sales, then to procurement and finance, she started learning more about the intricacies of the industry and quickly found that she loved operations—she knew very early on, that was her sweet spot. "I'm a natural problem-solver and I love customer service. I believe sales brings the customer, but its operations that maintains the customer."

For the next few years, she grew her knowledge and worked her way up to Operations Manager. The family business was growing just as fast at Maria's skills and love for the industry. So, when JAS officially purchased her parent's organization—making it JAS Colombia, shortly after, Adrian Emmenegger, Executive Vice President, Americas, presented her with the opportunity to lead JAS Colombia as its Managing Director.

"I was very young. I was probably one of the youngest, and I was the only woman. I was very excited, but I also knew it would be a big undertaking and I would be doing some things I had never done before." To no one's surprise, Maria flourished in this role, and she looked inward to see where she really wanted to take her career. "For a long time, I kept telling myself I would start over and pursue my dream in advertising. But when I finally acknowledged my love for the industry I was working in, and decided to put both feet in the water—I saw the results right away." Maria doubled down and earned her Executive MBA, and even focused her graduation case writing on the industry experience. She reaped the benefits of fully stepping into the moment she was in.

Shortly after this decision, fate stepped in again, and she was given the opportunity to move to the United States to manage the Miami Branch—leading her to another opportunity, where she would meet new challenges, she had never met before. Maria wasn't a stranger to unknown circumstances and knew exactly what she needed to do to succeed, "When approaching the unknown, I know when to ask for help and combine it with my adaptability. I learn from others and build teams by surrounding myself with those who are passionate and know more than I do."

Now in her new role, in a new country, Maria reflects on her leadership journey and how far she's grown. "When I started out, I was very controlling, but I soon realized that it was not beneficial for me or my team. Years of building trust helped me to change my approach."

In Miami, Maria focuses on fostering inclusion and ensuring her team stays the course. "Now instead of micromanaging, I give clear directions and build the roadmap, together, with my team." In a branch where there are over 15 different nationalities represented in just 45 employees, empathy and understanding play a key role in Maria's success as branch manager.

"What truly motivates me every morning is the constant opportunity to learn. I strive to approach things differently and think outside the box. I owe everything to the opportunities that JAS has given me, consistently supporting my professional career while understanding my role as a mother of two young men, who are my driving force and daily strength. In an industry typically led by men, JAS has always made me feel valued, safe, and secure."

Maria's unplanned career in logistics is a testament to the growth opportunities that JAS creates and the accomplishments that can come with them—if you just lean in. Her journey from reluctance to embrace the family business to becoming a respected leader in the industry illustrates the power of adaptability, perseverance, and a willingness to learn. Maria's story is a reminder that the paths we initially resist can lead to the most rewarding destinations. By seizing the opportunities presented to her and fully committing to her roles, she has achieved remarkable success and continues to inspire those around her.

JAS Worldwide, a global leader in freight forwarding and logistics, is excited to announce its return to the Farnborough International Airshow 2024, taking place from July 22-26 at Farnborough International Exhibition & Conference Centre in the suburbs of London. Known for showcasing the latest advancements in aerospace technology and innovation, this event provides a unique platform for JAS Worldwide to connect with industry leaders and showcase its innovative logistics solutions. 

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Farnborough International Airshow attendees are invited to visit the JAS Worldwide booth in Hall 3, Booth 3347. JAS supply chain experts representing seven countries will be available to discuss bespoke logistics solutions and the latest trends in aerospace logistics. 

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The Farnborough International Airshow is expected to attract over 80,000 visitors this year. As a premier event, it draws key stakeholders from across the aerospace sector, including manufacturers, suppliers, and service providers. JAS Worldwide looks forward to engaging with industry leaders, sharing insights, and exploring opportunities for collaboration. The event provides an ideal setting for JAS to strengthen its relationships and expand its network within the aerospace community. 

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JAS Worldwide's presence at the airshow will highlight its commitment to supporting the aerospace industry with tailored logistics services. From transporting critical aircraft components to comprehensive supply chain management, JAS Worldwide offers unparalleled expertise and customized solutions designed to streamline operations and enhance efficiency. 

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“Our team is excited to return to Farnborough,” said John Brennan, Senior Vice President of Aerospace & Defense at JAS Worldwide. “It's a valuable opportunity to connect with our current and future clients in the global aerospace and defense communities. Aerospace & Defense logistics are critical to JAS, and our presence at Farnborough underscores our dedication to this sector. We look forward to showcasing the value and efficiencies our clients gain by working with JAS." 

In its latest round of acquisitions, JAS Worldwide welcomes Key Logistics Group (KLG) and its operating subsidiaries, closing on June 30th, 2024.

Key Logistics Group is an international cargo freight forwarder with expertise in coordinating the logistics of goods by sea, air, and multimodal. KLG brings more than ten years of experience, creating a positive impact in countries such as Colombia, Mexico, and the United States. KLG's customers often praise its agile, transparent, on-time, innovative services.

Along with a respected name in the industry, KLG also brings a unique marketplace position in the transpacific ocean trade.

"With the combination of JAS's vast global reach and KLG's transpacific trade lane expertise, I'm excited to see how we utilize both of these strengths to further grow our presence and skill in transpacific trade," said Adrian Emmenegger, EVP Americas, JAS Worldwide.

Similar to JAS's motto, "People make the difference," KLG upholds a commitment to treating its customers and employees in a respectful, collaborative, and inclusive manner. Demonstrating these shared values, the integration of the organizations has been guided by respect for people and the principal fact that the customers come first.

"From the opportunity for more competitive pricing to the addition of value-added services such as contract logistics and e-commerce, I am looking forward to providing our customers with enhanced benefits that come with joining forces with a larger service delivery organization," said Tomas Shuk, President Key Logistics Group.

This strategic partnership not only expands JAS’s operational capabilities but also enhances its ability to offer comprehensive, value-added services to its customers worldwide. Further, the transaction will bring JAS’ global network and products to Key Logistics Group’s customers. Together, JAS Worldwide and Key Logistics Group are committed to driving growth, fostering innovation, and maintaining a shared dedication to excellence and customer satisfaction.

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About JAS Worldwide

JAS Worldwide, a global leader in logistics and supply chain solutions, was founded in Milan, Italy in 1978. Headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia and supported by 7,000+ team members in more than 100 countries, it focuses on creating solutions that are innovative, sustainable, and unique to each customer's needs. At the heart of its success is its people, who are committed to delivering customer value. As a privately owned company, JAS maintains a steadfast commitment to creating opportunities for our communities, customers, and colleagues to thrive. Together.