Francesca, how did you get to where you are today?
My career began in administration and accounting, where I gained a solid foundation of management and organizational skills. However, I felt the need for a more dynamic and challenging role, and this realization led me to make an important change: in the year 2000, I moved into the logistics sector. When my company was acquired by the Xella Group in 2011, I was able to reach new levels, eventually becoming Logistics Manager for Italy.
Today, I work with a team of eight very dedicated people to coordinate our logistics system. It includes three production plants and two loading facilities in Italy, located in Pontenure and Atella.
What personality traits do you need to do a good job in logistics?
First and foremost, having an organized and methodical approach is essential: the ability to plan, manage priorities, and meet deadlines is crucial. As the field is dynamic and constantly evolving, and unexpected situations are common, strong problem-solving skills and a flexible mindset are also essential. Communication is another key skill, as you will be working with colleagues, suppliers and customers, which requires clarity, empathy and assertiveness. Finally, a good dose of resilience and adaptability is needed. The pace can be intense and the challenges numerous.
You've been at Xella for 14 years now. What has changed since then?
In 2011, Xella had only one production plant and one loading point, both located in Pontenure. Since then, the company has expanded, which has required a major reorganization of its logistics, as well as the introduction of more advanced technologies and increasingly structured processes to ensure efficiency and flexibility for our customers.
My professional development has also evolved: I have taken on greater responsibility, contributing to the implementation of new processes and leading a motivated, skilled team.
What are your current challenges?
In our approach to customers, we focus on personalized logistics solutions. Currently, the main challenge in our department is the implementation of the digital dispatch system, which allows vehicles to enter our logistics sites autonomously, in a safe and controlled manner. In the near future, digital totems will allow vehicles to exit autonomously, completing a fully automated and optimized flow.
Logistics operators will receive all documents in digital format, making the process even more autonomous and efficient. It is a step towards sustainability, as we are no longer using paper, and at the same time a step towards efficiency, as it will reduce waiting times and improve the overall operation.
