X2 (UK), one of the country’s leading Fourth-Party Logistics (4PL) providers, has announced the appointment of James Smith as its new Commercial Director. As an expert in 4PL operations, James’ arrival signals a major step forward in X2 (UK)’s ambitious plans for expansion and market leadership.
With nearly two decades of experience in logistics, James brings both a wealth of knowledge and a proven track record of driving growth to the X2 (UK) table. His career began in freight forwarding operations, where he developed an in-depth understanding of the intricacies of logistics. He further honed his expertise by managing owner-driver networks across the UK, delivering impressive levels of efficiency and profitability within a 4PL framework. Progressing into operational management roles, he most recently led a team of 20 UK and European forwarders, alongside an administrative support function.
“I’ve always had a particularly keen interest in 4PL transport,” says James. “As a major 4PL provider, X2 (UK)’s operations and forward-thinking leadership really attracted me to the company. There’s also a remarkably friendly atmosphere there. They’re a hardworking but welcoming group, and that resonated with me.”
In his new role as Commercial Director, James’ immediate focus will be on expanding X2 (UK)’s footprint. “My priorities are to grow the business by attracting the correct customer type to the company. I also want to strengthen haulier partners within the business and strategically place partners in line with our growth.”
Within this, James views customer service as the most vital part of the growth equation. “Communication with customers, even if it’s an issue, is key. Proactive communication and attention to detail are huge factors.”
James sees significant opportunities for growth within the 4PL arena. “There’s major growth potential in the retail sector,” he says. “Having the ability to flex our services up and down to meet customer requirements is a key part of what we want to do and how we can expand. The construction industry also has an increasing need for 4PL services. Along with making sure our current construction customers are serviced correctly, I think we can significantly expand our client base in that sector, too.”
Looking at broader industry trends, James thinks businesses need to be acutely aware of the cyclical nature of demand. “Peak periods are features that businesses need to be readily prepared for. When you have the experience, you can spot when customers are going to need extra support. With its extensive partner network, X2 (UK) helps businesses stay ready for peak trends before they hit.”
While X2 (UK)’s impressive network of over 1,000 hauliers is certainly a major selling point of the company, James believes that its X2 (UK)’s operational model that truly sets it apart from other 4PL providers. “X2 (UK) may be an asset-light operation, but it also has a small fleet of vehicles on contracted work that are readily available for peak periods. That gives us a distinct advantage.”
In addition to the physical resources at the company’s disposal, James is in tune with the foresight of the company’s leadership team. “Even in the short time I’ve been here, it’s clear to me how thoughtfully the leadership team plans for the future – not just to grow the business, but to create lasting opportunities for everyone who works here.”
Looking ahead, James is as excited as you might expect by the opportunities his new role presents. “It’s my first senior position on a leadership team,” he says. “The prospect of developing X2 (UK) as a business, along with helping all the staff along the way… I can’t wait!”
To find out more about X2 (UK) and how its 4PL services are helping businesses across the UK manage their transportation needs more efficiently, you can contact us here.