Latha Asokan’s remarkable journey with CSS Group spans 28 years, marked by growth, perseverance, and leadership. Her story began in 1997, when CSS Dubai took over Anchorage Shipping Company at Wellington Island, where Latha was working at the time. From her initial role as Customs Clearance Head to becoming the Branch Manager of the Cochin Office, Latha’s career has been characterized by dedication and an unyielding drive for success.
Latha’s career took a significant turn in 2006 when Consolidated Shipping Services India Pvt Ltd. was established, and she was appointed as Branch Manager of the Cochin Office. This role proved to be a pivotal point, enabling her to grow from a carrying and forwarding licensed professional with limited knowledge to a full-fledged managerial position. She credits the CSS management for their unwavering support, particularly during a time when customs filing transitioned to a digital platform. She received tremendous support from the management of CSS when customs filing was shifted to a digital platform for the first time, recalls Latha. Her ability to lead her team through such technological advancements at a time when computerization was considered a major revolution, especially in Government Offices, showcased her adaptability and leadership skills.
Among Latha’s most memorable achievements was the time when her team became the first to digitally file documents from the Cochin Port. This pioneering moment, which came when exporters were given a self-sealing facility by the customs department, was a source of great pride for Latha. Another notable achievement occurred during the challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic when her company was one of the few—only three to four in total—that received export permits for rice and foodstuffs. These moments not only demonstrated her commitment but also highlighted the resilience and dedication of her team during critical times.
Throughout her career, Latha has developed habits that have positively impacted her work and personal life. One daily practice that has served her well is maintaining her calm, no matter how tough the day may be. It is her clear conscience and positive thinking that have helped her maintain a good rapport with her colleagues. This she feels is the key to her successful work life. Her approach to work is grounded in positivity and strong relationships, which have been crucial to her enduring success.
Reflecting on her 28-year journey, Latha acknowledges the ups and downs, the challenges, and the moments of growth. She takes pride in how her career evolved alongside her personal development, and her sense of accomplishment is clear as she looks back on the path she has travelled. When she looks back, she is contended. It is this spirit of contentment that keeps her motivated today. She takes pride in her ability to balance personal and professional life effectively.
For Latha, the key to CSS Group’s continued success lies in teamwork and motivation. Good teamwork is the key to success, says Latha. She advises to keep motivating the team, as they will take the organization to new heights. Her vision is built on the belief that a dedicated and inspired team can drive an organization toward greater achievements.
To those starting their careers with CSS Group, Latha offers words of wisdom drawn from her extensive experience. She says that policies change, work environment changes and new technologies come, but one must be prepared to take up new challenges in life and grab opportunities, as they come. “Work hard and think big” is her advice for new employees. This is based on her own journey, where embracing change and seizing opportunities have been central to her success. As she continues her journey, Latha remains a source of inspiration for her colleagues, embodying the values of hard work, positivity, and a relentless pursuit of success.