In the spotlight with Dudley Smith

At Pall-Ex Logistics (Surrey), we are committed to supporting the growth and development of our staff, supported in full by the Pall-Ex Group Op-Ex scheme.

The Pall-Ex Group Operational Excellence accreditation scheme was rolled out across the business in October 2024, encouraging operative staff to develop skills and increase overall capabilities with additional qualifications. Employees with an Op-Ex accreditation receive an additional hourly rate and an increase in job grade, alongside the opportunity to develop a wider skill set across the business.  

We spoke to Dudley Smith, a Class 1 C&D Driver at Pall-Ex Logistics (Surrey) who has just joined the Op-Ex accreditation scheme to find out more about how he has benefitted from the programme.

How many years have you been working in the logistics industry?

I’ve been a driver for 25 years.

What sets Pall-Ex Logistics apart from other logistics companies?

I have seen many changes over the years, some good and some bad, but recently the business has been focused on developing for the better. It is great to see lots of positive changes across Pall-Ex Logistics (Surrey), and whilst there have been some challenges over the last year, overall great things are happening with management, service and growth.

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced since joining the team?

I have previously struggled with feeling like my voice wasn’t being heard, but that has changed massively thanks to improved communication throughout the business. Staff are actively encouraged by management to give our input and share any ideas we have to work on improving things.

What made you decide to join the Operations Excellence Team?

I feel that joining the Op-Ex team and being part of the business-wide changes will allow me to have more of an input into our future. With management ensuring that everyone is involved, it feels like the business is heading in a really positive direction and being at the forefront as a member of the Op-Ex team will allow me to play my part in helping to make the changes.

This year alone, I have become a driver assessor and I am now part of the Op-Ex team, which shows that the management team are really invested in my development. It is incredibly motivating to know that everyone at Pall-Ex Logistics has faith in me, and I am really looking forward to giving back and helping with the continued development of Pall-Ex Logistics (Surrey).

What are you looking forward to in the future?

My manager has put a lot of faith in me, so I am now looking forward to helping the new, younger staff with their training. Becoming a driver assessor means that I can pass on everything that I have learnt in my 25 years of driving. There is nothing more rewarding than seeing someone grow in their role and knowing that I have played a part in their development.

Interested in joining the team at Pall-Ex Logistics (Surrey)? Take a look at our vacancies here: https://www.pallex.co.uk/vacancies