Andries Retief joined DHL Supply Chain in 2009 in South Africa and has since held various roles in Finance, Transport, and Operational Excellence across Africa, Europe, and Asia. Most recently, he served as the CEO for DHL Supply Chain in Central & Eastern Europe before relocating to Singapore in 2022 to lead the Southeast Asia operations. Now, as Chief Commercial Officer, he is focused on driving customer-centric strategies and delivering integrated contract logistics solutions to enhance resilience and efficiency for clients. 

How did you get into logistics?

By accident! When I started, I had no idea what I was getting myself into, but it turned out to be the best “accident” of my life.

What quote has most resonated with you?

“It is not the pursuit of happiness that matters, it is the happiness of the pursuit.” If you’re always chasing happiness, you might be disappointed— for me, it’s about enjoying the journey.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?

My dad told me, “When you have a setback, don’t step back.” That advise shaped the way I approached challenges throughout my entire life, and it definitely shaped my resilience.

What is the most adventurous thing you have ever done?

I’ve relocated six times across three continents—I lived in South Africa, Uganda, Kenya, Poland, Singapore, and now in Germany.

If you could have dinner with any three people, living or dead, who would it be and why?

Roger Federer— not because I am a tennis player myself, but I’m a huge sports fan and admire his ability to be the best in his field for such a long time while (appearing to be) a very down-to-earth person. Nelson Mandela—of course. That is the South African in me. And I am so tremendously grateful for his leadership and the ability of this one person to reunite my country. And my dad—he’s my lifetime hero. Full stop!

What’s something we wouldn’t know about you from your CV?

I used to be a rugby referee. In high leagues and international games. It gave me a unique way to explore my own country and travel internationally.

What hobby have you always wanted to try but never got around to?

I’ve always wanted to get a pilot’s licence!

If you had not pursued a career in airfreight, what other field would you have liked to go into?

I would’ve loved to be a professional cyclist—riding side by side with the best cyclists in the world at the Tour de France would be a big dream.

If you could have any superpower, what would it be?

Teleportation, hands down! No more painful check-in procedures, bland airport lounges or delayed planes.

If there was a movie made about your life, who would you like to see play the lead role?

I’m not much of a movie person—I’d probably prefer my life told through a book!

Looking back over your career, what would your message be to someone considering a career in logistics?

There’s never a dull day! If you’re prepared for hard work, logistics can be incredibly rewarding—there are few industries where you can really make an impact by “connecting people” and “improving lives”.

How do you motivate your team?

To me it is important to understand and explain why we do, what we do. So I like to explain why what we do matters. Setting clear goals and showing my team members what’s in it for them helps drive ambition.

What is the one item you can’t travel without?

My passport—and my running shoes. Even if I don’t always use them, it eases my conscience to know I could, anytime!

Who is your role model?

My dad. I try to live by the example he set. Every day.

What would your autobiography be called?

Probably “The Power of Why.” As a marathon runner, triathlete, and road cyclist, I’ve learned that in both endurance sports and life, having a purpose is everything—without it, you’re bound to give up halfway.

Cats or dogs?

Dogs, 100 times dogs. I’ve got two—a Dachshund and a Beagle. And both travelled the world with me. 

Early riser or night owl?

Early riser—I’m terrible at evening events or late-night dinners. But don’t tell anyone.

What’s the best and worst purchase you’ve ever made?

Every bicycle I’ve ever bought has been a fantastic investment! As for the worst? Honestly, I’m pretty careful with my spending, so I don’t have any real regrets!

If you could only eat one meal for the rest of your life, what would it be?

Coffee, definitely! I’m such a coffee snob that I might as well be a good barista in a hipster café. As for food, I’m pretty relaxed. It just has to fit the occasion and the country I’m in!

What’s your most used emoji?

The laughing face and the one with the tongue sticking out—sometimes, you just need no words to express how I feel after a long meeting.