Since joining CSS Group on October 21, 2008, Ranjith Haridas has experienced a dynamic and rewarding career. He began as a Sales Coordinator, a role that involved learning the fundamentals of LCL consolidation, supporting the sales team, and managing customer inquiries. This early experience provided a strong foundation in logistics and customer relationship management. After nearly two years, Ranjith was promoted to Sales Executive, where he took on direct client relationships and worked toward expanding the company’s sales network.
As Ranjith advanced to Team Leader—LCL Sales, his focus shifted toward leadership. He motivated his team to meet targets and facilitated collaboration to achieve sales goals. This role taught him the importance of leadership, teamwork, and performance management. His career continued with promotions to Business Development Manager and later Senior Business Development Manager, where he played a key role in expanding the client base and exploring new business opportunities.
Today, as Sales Manager, Ranjith oversees the LCL sales team. In this role, he develops sales strategies, guides his team toward success, and ensures that business objectives are met. Each step in his journey has shaped his leadership style and business acumen.
Outside of work, Ranjith enjoys playing cricket. He is an active CSS Group Cricket Team member and the Subcon Cricket Club in Dubai. Cricket keeps him physically active and allows him to relax and bond with colleagues and friends.
One of the greatest challenges in Ranjith’s career was overcoming skepticism about LCL shipping compared to FCL, especially during peak seasons with fluctuating demand and capacity. To address this, he focused on educating clients about the benefits of LCL, such as cost savings and flexibility. Building personal relationships with freight forwarders proved essential; by maintaining regular communication, Ranjith helped establish trust and ensured that CSS Group’s services remained top-of-mind for clients. Ultimately, his adaptability and client-focused approach helped overcome market fluctuations and skepticism.
Ranjith says technology is transforming the logistics industry by enhancing efficiency, visibility, and adaptability. Automation through robotics streamlines warehouse operations and reduces costs. Data analytics improves demand forecasting and route optimization, allowing more informed decision-making. The Internet of Things (IoT) provides real-time tracking of shipments, enhancing transparency. Blockchain increases security and traceability, helping to reduce fraud, while Artificial Intelligence (AI) optimizes routes and predicts trends.
In terms of sustainability, Ranjith sees innovations like electric vehicles and carbon tracking tools as key to promoting eco-friendly practices. A highlight of Ranjith’s career was being part of the NVOCC team since 2008, handling LCL shipments for major freight forwarders like UTI Middle East, APL Logistics, DSV, and DB Schenker. From 2008 to 2015, he was vital in managing de-stuffing operations for large multinational clients, such as Panalpina, JAS Middle East, and Weiss Rohlig. These large-scale operations taught him the value of teamwork, logistics coordination, and client satisfaction.
During challenging times, Ranjith maintains motivation by viewing difficulties as opportunities for growth and learning. A supportive network of colleagues and friends also helps provide encouragement and a positive perspective.
Ranjith advises junior colleagues never to underestimate the importance of building strong relationships. Networking within the team and across the industry creates more opportunities and is key to success in the logistics field. According to Ranjith, relationships are crucial in career growth and business development.