Mirjam Scherer, the Global Head of Specials Logistics at Air France KLM Martinair Cargo, has garnered more than 15 years of experience across sales, management and cargo logistics. Having joined KLM in 2002, prior to its merger with Air France, she has worked in a number of roles on both the passenger and cargo side of operations.
How did you get into the air freight industry?
It was kind of a coincidence because my background is in hotel management. However, I have always loved the KLM brand, so I applied for a job at KLM because of the international environment. While working for KLM, I used to ride horses as I was really a horse girl when I was young. Then, in 2007, I saw a job posting for a sales manager for live horses and thought, “Well, that combines my commercial competences with my personal interest in horses.” I applied for the job and was hired, and since then, I have mostly been in air cargo, of which 7 years involved in the transportation of live animals.
READ: 60 SECONDS WITH … FABRICE PANZA
If there was a movie made about your life, who would you like to see play the lead role?
Reese Witherspoon.
If you could have any superpower, what would it be?
To let people truly listen to each other. Many people tend to speak without really hearing what others have to say. Better listening would lead to better understanding, and I think that would help a lot.
If you could have dinner with any three people, living or dead, who would it be and why?
I’m always intrigued by Obama, so I would like to have dinner with him. I don’t really tend to look up to people; I just get inspired by them. Next would be Albert Plesman, the founder of KLM, because it was quite bold to start an airline back then. And then, I think, Nelson Mandela, no explanation needed.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
Stay true to yourself.
If you could only eat one meal for the rest of your life, what would it be?
French cuisine or sushi.
What is the most adventurous thing you have ever done?
I’m not really a bungee jumper kind of person, but I think travelling alone when I was very young, through Australia, was quite adventurous. My upbringing was very safe and sound, and then to travel alone to the other side of the world all by yourself was a big step. Professionally, I always want to learn something new. I have worked in four different divisions within KLM. People always said, “Ah, you’re throwing away your whole network and all your knowledge,” but I always felt like I was gaining knowledge and expanding my network. It brought me so much, so “dare to jump” is really advice I follow.
What’s something we wouldn’t know about you from your CV?
Well, I’m actually pretty clumsy.
How do you motivate your team?
Show genuine interest in your team. Understand what drives them and what makes them happy. I try to make them feel comfortable and encourage them to step out of their comfort zones. Humor and trust are essential. Make people believe in themselves. I’m really proud that people tell me they like working with me because I want my team to shine. I don’t need to be in the spotlight; I want my team to flourish.
What hobby have you always wanted to try but never got around to?
If I want something, I just try it; I just go for it. Maybe I’ll fly a plane myself.
What’s your proudest moment and your biggest regret?
I think my proudest moment was becoming a mum. I’m really a workaholic and passionate about my job. I’ve worked so many hours, but in the end, what I’m most proud of is my son and the relationship I have with him. Work-wise, I’m proud that I’m somewhat self-made. You know, there are management trainee programmes, but I was never part of them. I just followed my own way and was always open to new adventures, and it led me to this position. I’m proud of where I am today.
READ: 60 SECONDS WITH… ANTONIA AMBROZY
I don’t think regrets are productive; you always learn something. I’m very good at forgetting negative stuff and remembering the good things. So sometimes I might feel bad one day, and the next day, if someone asks, “Do you feel better?” I might not even remember what they are talking about. I really try to live in the moment, forget the bad things, and focus on the positive side.
Looking back over your career, what would your message be to someone considering a career in logistics?
Be open to new experiences and don’t think, “I can’t do this” or “I need this specific education.” Just go for it and learn on the job. Be willing to educate yourself along the way, and then you can get further than you ever expected. And work hard.
What would your autobiography be called?
She Was Too Loud: A Bit Chaotic, but Very Passionate and Devoted to Her Job, Friends and Family
