Andrés Retief joined DHL Supply Chain in 2009 in South Africa and has since held various roles in finance, transportation and operational excellence across Africa, Europe and Asia. Most recently, he served as CEO of DHL Supply Chain in Central and Eastern Europe before moving to Singapore in 2022 to lead Southeast Asia operations. Now, as Chief Commercial Officer, he focuses on driving customer-focused strategies and delivering integrated contract logistics solutions to enhance flexibility and efficiency for customers.
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 resonates most with you?
“It is not the pursuit of happiness that is important, but happiness is the pursuit of it.” If you’re always chasing happiness, you might be disappointed – for me, it’s about enjoying the ride.
What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?
My father told me, “When you have a setback, don’t back down.” This advice has shaped the way I deal with challenges throughout my life, and it has certainly shaped my resilience.
What is the most adventurous thing you have ever done?
I have moved six times across three continents, living in South Africa, Uganda, Kenya, Poland, Singapore and now Germany.
If you could have dinner with any three people, living or dead, who would it be and why?
Roger Federer – Not because I’m a tennis player, but I’m a huge fan of the sport and I admire his ability to be the best in his field for so long while (seeming like) a very humble person. Nelson Mandela – Of course. This is the South African in me. I am extremely grateful for his leadership and this person’s ability to reunite my country. And my father – he is the hero of my life. Full stop!
What is something we don’t know about you from your CV?
I used to be a rugby referee. In high leagues and international matches. It has given me a unique way to explore my country and travel internationally.
What’s a hobby you’ve always wanted to try but never got around to?
I’ve always wanted to get a pilot’s license!
If you had not pursued a career in air freight, what other field would you have liked to get into?
I was hoping to become a professional cyclist, riding alongside the best cyclists in the world in the Tour de France would be a huge dream.
If you could have any superpower, what would it be?
Teleportation, hands down! No more painful check-ins, airport lounges or delayed planes.
If there was a movie about your life, who would you like to play the lead role in it?
I don’t like movies very much, and I’d probably rather have my life told through a book!
Looking back on your career, what would your message be to someone considering a career in logistics?
There’s never a dull day! If you’re willing to work hard, logistics can be incredibly rewarding – there are few industries where you can make a real impact by ‘connecting people’ and ‘improving lives’.
How do you motivate your team?
For me, it is important to understand and explain why we do and what we do. So I would like to explain why what we do is important. Setting clear goals and showing my team members what’s in their best interest helps drive ambition.
What’s the one thing you can’t travel without?
My passport – and my sneakers. Even if I don’t always use it, it eases my conscience to know that I can use it anytime!
Who is your role model?
my father. I try to live by the example he set. every day.
What will you name your CV?
Maybe “the power of reason.” As a marathon runner, triathlete, and road cyclist, I’ve learned that in both endurance sports and life, having a goal is everything—and without it, you’re bound to give up halfway through.
Cats or dogs?
Dogs, 100 times dogs. I’ve got two – a dachshund and a beagle. And they both traveled the world with me.
Early riser or night owl?
Waking up early: I feel bad at evening events or late-night dinners. But don’t tell anyone.
What’s the best and worst purchase you’ve ever made?
Every bike I’ve ever bought has been a great investment! As for the worst? Honestly, I’m very 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, of course! I’m such a coffee lover that I would make a good barista at a hipster coffee shop. As for the food, I’m very satisfied. It just has to fit the occasion and the country I live in!
What is your most used emoji?
Smiling face and tongue sticking out – Sometimes, you don’t need words to express how I feel after a long meeting.
