INTERVIEW WITH SEAN BRANDENBURG FROM CENTRAL CARGO NORTH AMERICA
Sean Brandenburg, CEO of Central Cargo North America, has over 30 years of experience in supply chain management and logistics. In his current role, Brandenburg manages a full service domestic and international freight forwarding company focused on providing unparalleled customer service and supply chain solutions. He is focused on enterprise-wide success through proactive change management and comprehensive, strategic initiatives.
Please, tell us a bit about yourself and Central Cargo.
Prior to my current role, I served in the Air Force for over 7 years and led multiple companies to success. As Executive Director of International Development at TransGroup Worldwide Logistics, I managed to generate $75M+ in annual revenue and optimized revenue growth from zero to $41M annually. As Director of Corporate Development, I managed to generate over $200M in annual revenue by creating, employing, and constructing Consultative Training Programs.
Successful track record has been reinforced by recruiting high-caliber talent and encouraging professional growth at all levels. I am highly skilled in revitalizing underperforming areas and capturing new opportunities for growth.
I studied Computer Science and Psychology at the University of Maryland Global Campus from 1985-1988. I went on to study Information Systems and Psychology at the University of Maryland from 1990-1991 and received the Associate of Applied Sciences in Logistics and Transportation from the Community College of the Air Force in 1992. I am also a Certified Professional Behavioral Analyst.
Central Cargo North America (CCNA) was founded on a friendship and partnership spanning over 20 years and is based on a service first mentality. We strongly believe in partnerships, friendships and trust in every approach to our business, whether that is through the many relationships we build around the globe, or the team members we hire here at home; every one is a part of our success and future.
CCNA is a small, rapidly growing, full service international and domestic freight forwarder and consultant based in Dallas Texas with an office in Seattle Washington and additional markets to be opened in the near future. While we can solve any logistical problem anywhere at any time, we believe in a local approach to our future success and growth. Keep an eye out for new and exciting locations in the near future.
For 2023 we see a downturn in global economy, what are your expectations for transport and logistics on the US market?
Our current projections and growth are forecasted at over 250% over 2022. While many are expecting a decrease in current volumes, our approach is to aggressively tackle the challenge through recruitment, expansion, and diversification of our service and vertical offerings.
How important do you consider the Central East European region for your business?
While we are a North American based forwarder (with roots in Italy), we are incredibly Euro-centric in our business, development, and strategic planning. With a large segment of North American SME’s choosing the CEE countries for their distribution networks as well as supplier base(s), these areas are integral to our development and success and the partnership base that we are building through the WOF is critical for our future.
Central Cargo is famous for offering special industry solutions, in which segment to you see the biggest potential for 2023?
Much of our current business has been built around, fashion, retail, Industrial and to a minor extent, automotive. We are exploring many other opportunities in various market segments but are really starting to make more headway in the Automotive and Aerospace sectors. AOG/Time-critical services are really building fast for us and we really want to look to build on this volume and as well as develop a larger base of Healthcare partners. Aside from these areas, being a Military Veteran, we are looking to expand our offerings into Government solutions by looking to obtain veteran business status.
The Central Cargo Family is in business for over 12 years, how do you define success in your business?
Central Cargo was found 12 years ago in Prato Italy, and we expanded to North America in April of 2021. With 12 global offices in 2 countries, we look toward further expansion in our current regions as well as new markets in the near future as a key to our continued success and growth. My belief is that if you are sitting still then you will get left behind!
Central Cargo is a dynamic company born from a fusion of experiences gained over 35 years in Global Logistics. Central Cargo is made up of experienced and reliable professionals where constant attention to new services and customer needs allow us to offer a varied range of services in the name of innovation and personalization supported by advanced IT systems. We’re able to satisfy any logistical problem, anywhere!