Denis Israfilov manages Radius’ International Department. He brings robust international freight-forwarding expertise as part of our integrated freight services, providing our customers with custom solutions for every budget. Denis is well-versed in international air & ocean cargo, allowing him to address a broad range of challenges with innovative ideas to implement solutions that gets the job done. Certainty Delivered.
Meet Denis!
Tell us about yourself…
I was born and raised in Russia and immigrated to Canada 7 years ago with my family. I have a 9-year-old son and 12-year-old daughter. We call Canada our home now, and do not regret the big move. Outside of work and family, I enjoy spending time in the gym and I am slowly learning to play golf.
What is your role at Radius Logistics?
I manage the International Department, overseeing the operations of both air and ocean shipments that either originate or terminate outside of North America. I use my experience in creating innovative and profitable solutions for our clients.
What attracted you to the company?
I joined Radius Logistics in October 2016. It would be fair to say that my expectations were exceeded. From my very initial interview, I was sold on Radius’ way of doing business and the amount of respect they give to their employees and vendors. The management team understands exactly where the company needs to be to be successful and provides us with the tools and support to get the job done. I was drawn by their vision, strive for excellence and personal charisma of the managers.
Tell me more about your previous experience? What expertise do you offer to Radius clients?
This is my 11th year in the logistics industry. I was lucky to work for leading companies that set the tone for the whole industry. I started my career with the world’s largest ocean carrier, and later worked for one of the world’s most renowned logistics providers. It was a very rewarding experience as I could observe operational processes from both the carrier’s and freight forwarder’s side. This powerful synergy of experience from working on different sides of the business benefited our clientele.
Why did you choose a career in logistics? Where do you see the future of the industry?
I chose a career in logistics as I have always been a huge fan of global trade and wanted to be involved in the industry. Also, when I map logistics routes, I think of all the countries that my shipment will cross, and I always try to research new places that are unfamiliar. It is very interesting, as you can travel in your mind from one country to another.
This industry is constantly evolving, so it’s important to set aside some time away from the day-to-day operations and read up on the latest developments in the industry and analyze how they would affect your clients in the short and long-term. Technology is moving in the direction to allow service providers to do more with less. As more global trade treaties are signed, it will cause freight volumes to increase, and therefore, will require more logistics professionals to handle shipments in the most cost-effective way.
What is the biggest challenge clients’ face in their supply chain? What advice do you have? What is the secret to success in supply chain solutions?
I’d say there are too many parties involved in the (international) supply chain, making it quite challenging, especially considering cultural differences. Even though most parties can communicate with each other in English, they can perceive an opposite perception of what the other party really means. Communication is the key. One should be able to provide clear instructions and follow up. I’ve seen many shipments fail due to poor communication between the parties involved and lack of follow up.
What’s your go to travel song?
Whenever I travel, I always listen to “I Gotta Feeling” by the Black Eyed Peas, especially on the plane. It gives me a ton of energy!
If you were stuck on a desert island and could only have 1 item couriered to you by Radius Courier– what would it be?
This already sounds like paradise, so I would have to play it safe to prolong my chances of survival and ask for only the bare necessity – drinking water.
