Biography of Amitabh Shankar: CEO of Cogoport- Indian Entrepreneur
Amitabh Shankar’s Leadership Journey:
Educational Foundations and Early Career
Amitabh Shankar began his academic journey at the Manipal
Institute of Technology, where he earned a Bachelor of Engineering in
Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engineering. His pursuit of
knowledge continued with a PGDBM in Logistics and Supply Chain from SP Jain
Institute of Management & Research, followed by a Management Development
Program at IMD Business School. This robust educational background laid the
groundwork for his future roles in logistics and supply chain management.
Biography of Amitabh Shankar:CEO of Cogoport- Indian Entrepreneur /Investor /Success story of Amitabh Shankar/TXM Logistics/Apollo Fiege/Age/Net worth
Early Professional Roles
Shankar's career commenced at the Damodar Valley
Corporation, where he worked as an Assistant Engineer. He soon transitioned to
the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) as a Scientist Grade C, gaining
early exposure to high-stakes project management. His time at these
organizations honed his technical skills and provided a solid foundation for
his future endeavors in logistics.
Entry into the Steel Industry
Shankar’s career advanced as he took on the role of
Assistant Manager at Steel Authority of India Limited (SAIL). Here, he was
involved in process performance and Six Sigma project implementations. His work
focused on improving operational efficiency, which would become a cornerstone of
his approach in later roles.
Diving into Logistics with Maersk
In 2008, Shankar joined Damco, part of A.P. Moller-Maersk,
as Regional Manager for North and East India. Over six years, he was responsible
for achieving EBIT and volume targets, developing sustainable business models,
and integrating contractual forwarding with supply chain services. His tenure
at Damco was marked by successful strategies that enhanced profitability and
customer relations.
Chief Operating Officer at Apollo Fiege
Shankar’s next significant role was as Chief Operating
Officer at Apollo Fiege Integrated Logistics Pvt. Ltd. from 2014 to 2018. He
managed the P&L for a joint venture with Fiege GmbH, focusing on integrating
contract logistics with international freight services. His leadership was
pivotal in delivering strong financial performance and operational integration.
Entrepreneurial Venture with TXM Logistics
In March 2019, Shankar co-founded TXM Logistics Pvt. Ltd.,
where he served as the CEO. His role involved establishing the company in the
Chinese market, implementing statutory and compliance frameworks, and
successfully executing an exit strategy by selling the company to a Chinese
strategic investor. This venture highlighted his capability to manage and grow
businesses in new and challenging markets.
CEO of Cogoport
Since October 2020, Amitabh Shankar has been the CEO of
Cogoport, a digital trade platform aimed at simplifying global and domestic
shipping for SMEs and large enterprises. Under his leadership, Cogoport has
focused on enhancing supply chain visibility and transparency, supported by
Accel and strategic investors. The platform has grown significantly,
demonstrating Shankar's expertise in driving innovation in logistics.
Comments on the 2024 Budget
Shankar has publicly commended the 2024 Budget for its focus
on global trade and domestic supply chain efficiency. He praised the budget’s
initiatives to reduce import release times at airports, seaports, and ICDs, and
the creation of an economic railway corridor under the PM Gati Shakti Program.
These measures aim to boost India’s global trade position and enhance the
efficiency of port operations.
Vision for the Future
Amitabh Shankar’s career reflects a commitment to improving
logistics and supply chain management through innovation and strategic
leadership. His roles across various organizations have equipped him with a
deep understanding of both operational and strategic aspects of logistics,
positioning him as a key figure in transforming global trade dynamics.
Achievements and Recognition
Throughout his career, Shankar has been recognized for his
contributions to logistics and supply chain management. His work at Maersk,
Apollo Fiege, and Cogoport has been marked by successful business turnarounds,
strategic partnerships, and measurable growth, showcasing his ability to lead
and innovate in the logistics sector.
Current and Future Impact
As CEO of Cogoport, Amitabh Shankar continues to drive
significant changes in the logistics industry. His leadership is focused on
leveraging digital solutions to streamline global and domestic shipping
processes, reflecting his ongoing commitment to enhancing the efficiency and
competitiveness of businesses in the global trade arena.
A timeline with concise explanations:
Bachelor's Degree: Electrical, Electronics, and
Communications Engineering, Manipal Institute of Technology.
PGDBM: Logistics and Supply Chain, SP Jain Institute of
Management & Research.
Management Development Program: IMD Business School.
2009-2010: Assistant Engineer at Damodar Valley Corporation.
2010-2012: Scientist Grade C at ISRO.
2012-2014: Assistant Manager at Steel Authority of India
Limited (SAIL).
2008-2014: Regional Manager at Damco (A.P. Moller-Maersk).
2014-2018: COO at Apollo Fiege Integrated Logistics Pvt.
Ltd.
March 2019: Co-founded TXM Logistics Pvt. Ltd. and exited by
selling to a Chinese investor.
October 2020-Present: CEO of Cogoport.
2024: Commended the budget for enhancing global trade and
supply chain efficiency.