Business group Logistics UK has named Matt O’Dell of DFDS Logistics as the Logistics Leader of the Year at its annual Logistics Awards, held at the Park Plaza Westminster Bridge on Thursday 12 December 2024.
O’Dell, who is managing director of England logistics for DFDS, is credited with having successfully led the company’s cold chain business through the Covid pandemic and new trading arrangements after Brexit, as well as acute driver shortages.
Despite this, he has worked hard to secure new business, attract new talent and retain customers to deliver on the DFDS Group’s growth strategy to double revenue and profit for the financial year ending 2023.
Over the past 10 years, O’Dell has achieved a 597% increase in turnover and 665% rise in profits for the UK cold chain business.
David Wells, chief executive at Logistics UK, commented: “This was a very close category with a high number of exceptional entries. Matt just tipped the balance with the performance improvement in every aspect of his business, and I would like to congratulate him on his win; he is truly the Logistics Leader of the Year.”
Chris Welch, managing director, Welch’s Transport, was highly commended in this category, which was sponsored by R2C Online.
Logistics UK’s Logistics Awards 2024 recognise and celebrate the companies and individuals who have made a significant contribution to the logistics and supply industry over the past 12 months and who excel in their fields.
For the full list of winners, please visit www.logistics.org.uk/logistics24
Entries for next year’s Logistics Awards open in March, with awards night taking place in December. Further details will be published in the run-up to the event.
