Janis Balkens is a Latvian national with over 20 years of experience in leadership, operational and commercial roles in aviation. He has worked extensively with airports, airlines, ground handlers and logistics companies, and most recently, he held the position of of Regional Chief Executive Officer for New and Emerging Markets at dnata.
Balkens holds an MBA in Aviation from the Danube University Krems and completed executive management programmes at the London Business School and INSEAD.
Balkens joined Unilode in October 2023 as Chief Operating Officer.
How did you get into airfreight/logistics?
My dad worked at customs at the airport in the early 90’s and I took a Summer job there when I was 15. Since then I always wanted to come back, and I started with airBaltic in 1996.
What quote has most resonated with you?
Treat others how you would like to be treated.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
Don’t lie.
What is the most adventurous thing you have ever done?
I can’t disclose it…
If you could have dinner with any three people, living or dead, who would it be and why?
Michael Jordan, my sports idol, Robert de Niro, to see if he’s fun or boring, and my Godfather John, who passed away during Covid, and I did not have a chance to see him for a few last years.
What’s something we wouldn’t know about you from your CV?
I was a DJ.
What hobby have you always wanted to try but never got around to?
Flying a plane.
If you have not pursued a career in airfreight, what other field would you have liked to go into?
Minister of Foreign Affairs.
If you could have any superpower, what would it be?
Prevent people from getting sick.
What’s your proudest moment and your biggest regret?
Proudest – My three daughters, no doubt. Regret – I wasn’t there for them enough.
If there was a movie made about your life, who would you like to see play the lead role?
Brad Pitt, because it would be so cool.
Looking back over your career, what would your message be to someone considering a career in logistics?
It’s a fascinating industry that allows you to move around the world and be professional anywhere, as your skills are applicable everywhere. It’s addictive and makes the world feel small. It’s still one of the industries where you can start at the bottom and become CEO.
How do you motivate your team?
Be present, be clear on the purpose, their role in it and their goal!
What is the one item you can’t travel without?
Passport.
Who is your role model?
Arnold Schwarzenegger (he literally beat the odds).
What would your autobiography be called?
The Globetrotter from unknown place.
Cats or dogs?
Cats.
Early riser or night owl?
Night owl, still.
What’s the best and worst purchase you’ve ever made?
Best – First house at the age of 21. Worst – A car that I did not need.
If you could only eat one meal for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Pasta.
What’s your most used emoji?
Thumbs up!
