A lifelong passion for logistics
A chat with Luc Vandenplas, Lead Technical Service at Group-GTS
Not only does Group-GTS have a history of more than 40 years in transport and logistics and the delivery of a broad range of services, it also employs a very diverse range of people that help the company grow. Today we will be talking to Luc Vandenplas, Lead Technical Service at Group-GTS in Kallo. With more than three decades of experience, Luc is a central figure in the world of logistics and transport. Responsible for the maintenance of rolling stock, he combines dedication and precision to ensure smooth operations and the safety of his team.
Passionate about logistics
“I took my first steps in the logistics world before the start of my professional career,” says Luc. “I was constantly tinkering with bicycles and mopeds as a child in the garage of a transport company, and as a teenager I gained experience as a student worker. My professional career started in September 1991, and that was the beginning of a lifelong passion for the logistics world.”
Luc’s path crossed that of Group-GTS when it took over the organisation that had employed him for more than 25 years. Today, Luc is employed in the position of Lead Technical Service, a versatile role that gives him great satisfaction. He is responsible for the technical service for the fleet, logistics and buildings. “My daily tasks include managing and controlling the maintenance of a wide range of rolling stock, from trucks and forklifts to trailers, chassis and reach stackers. In other words, I am responsible for the maintenance of all Group-GTS vehicles and equipment that have wheels and are located on the Kallo site.”
A day in the life of
As an avid motorcyclist, Luc always starts his working day on his beloved motorcycle. When he arrives at the Kallo site with a fresh head at around quarter past seven, he begins his tour of the site. He checks everything is in order and registers any problems he notices. This can vary from work waiting for the technical service, to trailers and chassis that have not been left in accordance with the regulations. “Cleanliness and safety are not only essential for smooth operations, they also help prevent accidents,” he emphasises. Only after he has inspected the entire site does he start his working day. At the office, Luc translates the problems he has noticed into task lists and agenda items for meetings with the fleet and logistics team. At the same time, the technicians start their daily tasks. Luc determines the priorities based on the assignments. The tasks can be very diverse and are often supplemented with urgent requests, so no working day is the same or follows a fixed schedule.
Luc also monitors maintenance and repair work. Some work can be performed internally, while other work is outsourced to external parties. Luc closely monitors all these processes, from outsourcing to the subsequent checks.
Thanks to his extensive experience, Luc always knows how to put the safety and well-being of his team first, while managing the expenses efficiently. “I handle budgets in a well-considered manner. The confidence that management places in my financial decision-making gives me great satisfaction,” he explains.
Strong team spirit
In addition to the diversity and challenge he finds in his work, Luc also appreciates the strong team spirit within Group-GTS. Although the different departments are not under the same roof, the teams maintain close ties, both on a business and personal level. “Communication with the head office runs smoothly. We hold meetings every day by telephone, Teams or at the Kallo site.” The interpersonal atmosphere is also excellent. The company regularly organises fun events such as team evenings, quizzes and recently a successful family day.
“It’s a great company to work for,” says Luc. “We are always looking for motivated people to join our team.” The vacancies are always up on our website www.group-gts.com.
Luc expects two essential qualities from his team: commitment and the ability to see what work needs to be done. “Group-GTS is always prepared to invest in (additional) training, but the motivation to work and having insight into what needs to be done must come from the employees themselves. Motivated team players can achieve a lot within Group-GTS,” he concludes.