We interviewed Syed Khurram Razvi, a seasoned finance professional and the CFO of Tamer Logistics. With extensive experience in the logistics industry, Syed Khurram Razvi has played a crucial role in the growth and success of Tamer Logistics over the years. His dedication, expertise, and leadership have contributed to the transformation of the finance department, turning it into a value-creating entity.
With over 22 years of experience in finance and a deep understanding of the logistics industry, Syed Khurram Razvi has been instrumental in upholding financial discipline, implementing strategic plans to enhance shareholder value, and actively participating in the executive committee of Tamer Logistics. He has also been involved in mergers and acquisitions, maintaining key relationships with external auditors, banks, and professional organizations. Learn more about Syed Khurram Razvi and Tamer Logistics through our interview below.
Can you share with us the story behind your career progression and how you became the CFO of Tamer Logistics?
I began my professional career at a Big Four audit firm in 1997, and later, in 2001, joined a leading global logistics company.
During that time, I was fortunate to work for a modest-sized organization where I was able to showcase my skills and abilities in a professional setting. This experience provided me with a sense of confidence and expertise, which ultimately led me to pursue global growth opportunities with a multinational logistics company in Lagos, Nigeria, in 2007.
With 22 years of experience in finance and extensive commercial and business knowledge of the logistics industry, I am proud to serve as the CFO of Tamer Logistics.
What initially attracted you to join Tamer Logistics and how has your role evolved since then?
Due to my deep interest and passion for the logistics industry, I enthusiastically accepted the position of Financial Controller at Tamer Group in 2010. In 2011, Tamer Group decided to venture into the logistics sector, and as I had prior experience in this field, I played an active role in establishing the necessary processes, controls, and departmental structure.
In recognition of my contributions, I was promoted to the position of Director of Finance in 2015 and, later in 2022, to the position of Chief Financial Officer.
My role has undergone significant development over the years. Initially, my responsibilities were focused on managing finance day-to-day operations with the team. However, my current focus is on driving digitization and process automation, developing and executing strategies, and leading the company forward.
Tamer Logistics has achieved impressive growth since its inception in 2011, evolving from a fledgling logistics company to becoming the top logistics provider in Saudi Arabia.
Recently, Tamer Logistics was recognized as the ‘Most Inspirational Logistics Company of the Year 2023’ by Transport & Logistics Middle East, UAE.
Could you tell us about the key responsibilities and challenges you face as the CFO of the company?
As the Chief Financial Officer of Tamer Logistics, my primary duties include upholding financial discipline, devising and implementing strategic plans to enhance shareholder value, and taking an active role in the Executive Committee of Tamer Logistics.
Additionally, I am responsible for leading and participating in mergers and acquisitions, maintaining relationships with external auditors, banks, and other professional organizations.
Working at Tamer Logistics is a stimulating and demanding experience, as each day presents new challenges that require innovative solutions.
How would you describe the company culture at Tamer Logistics and how does it contribute to the overall success of the organization? What are the core values that drive you and how do they align with the vision of the company?
The culture upheld at Tamer Group and Tamer Logistics is grounded in a set of core values that are deeply ingrained in our practices. These values include Integrity, Collaboration, Commitment, Passion for Learning, Diversity, and Respect, which we hold in high regard.
Our work environment fosters a sense of belongingness, where every employee is valued and treated with utmost respect and empathy.
We at Tamer Group and Tamer Logistics are a family, and our management is committed to providing unwavering support to every individual.
This approach has manifested in improved employee performance and loyalty, which has been instrumental in propelling our companies to unparalleled heights.
Can you discuss any significant milestones or achievements that you have accomplished during your tenure at Tamer Logistics? What strategies or initiatives have you implemented to foster growth and innovation within the company?
I take great pride and pleasure in my work at Tamer Logistics. Having been there since its inception, I have witnessed substantial growth from 2 warehouses and 30 employees to over 18 warehouses and 600+ employees in just 13 years.
Our top-line has increased by 12-fold since inception, thanks to the hard work and commitment of our management and team members.
Throughout these years, we have consistently improved and maintained our net margins. My primary focus has been on process automation and digitization, implementing robust controls, and promoting teamwork. These efforts have played a vital role in driving continuous growth and innovation within the organization.
How do you ensure effective collaboration and communication between the finance department and other departments within the organization?
As firm proponents of inter-departmental communication and collaboration, my colleagues and I in the finance team hold frequent meetings with other departments to address their concerns in a timely manner.
We regularly review key performance indicators and actively participate in business-related decision-making.
Tamer Logistics finance team is a prime example of the true spirit of a finance-business partnership.
As a leader, how do you empower and motivate your team to achieve their full potential?
As a leader, I highly value my team as my most precious asset. I firmly believe that a skilled, hardworking, and motivated team has the potential to surpass conventional expectations. To support this belief, I have consistently provided both professional and personal support to my team, empowering them to explore innovative solutions and overcome any obstacles without fear of failure. I view failures as opportunities for growth and perseverance. With this perspective, I have successfully transformed my finance department from a “cost center” to a “value creation” entity.
Furthermore, I firmly believe in creating opportunities for team members to enhance their expertise, push their boundaries, and undertake new responsibilities. My objective is to nurture a positive and motivating workplace environment for my team. I strive to acknowledge and reward their achievements, provide constructive feedback, and offer recognition for their diligent efforts. In doing so, I aim to inspire and motivate my team to reach their utmost potential.
How do you stay informed about the latest trends and developments in the logistics industry, and how do you incorporate that knowledge into your decision-making process?
To stay informed about the latest trends and developments in the logistics industry, professionals can utilize a variety of resources such as industry publications, attending conferences and trade shows, participating in networking events, following industry experts on social media, and subscribing to newsletters and blogs.
Incorporating this knowledge into the decision-making process involves analyzing the gathered information and determining how it can be applied to improve logistics operations, enhance customer experience, and increase efficiency and profitability.
This may involve revisiting supply chain strategies, adopting new technologies or processes, or expanding into new markets.
What do you consider to be your greatest strengths and how have they contributed to your success in your current role?
As a professional, I have always been aware of the importance of effective communication. Whether it is through written or verbal communication, being able to convey ideas and information clearly and concisely is essential in any workplace.
In addition to communication, my leadership skills have also been instrumental in my success. A good leader is someone who can inspire and motivate others towards a common goal, and I have always strived to embody these qualities. Through leading by example and setting high standards, I have been able to earn the respect and trust of my team members.
By combining my effective communication and leadership skills with my strategic thinking and time management abilities, I have been able to achieve great results in my career and make a positive impact in my organization.
How do you approach challenges or setbacks in your career, and what strategies do you employ to overcome them?
When faced with a big and complex problem, it can be overwhelming to try to tackle it all at once. That’s why I find it helpful to break the problem down into smaller, more manageable segments. By focusing on one step at a time, I can avoid feeling overwhelmed by the enormity of the task and maintain a sense of progress.
In addition, I firmly believe that overcoming fear is key to facing any challenge. Fear can paralyze us and prevent us from taking necessary risks or making difficult decisions. By acknowledging our fears and working to overcome them, we can build the confidence and resilience needed to tackle even the most daunting of problems. Taking small steps towards our goals, even when we feel afraid or uncertain, can be a powerful way to push through our fears and achieve success.
Can you share any valuable lessons or advice you have learned throughout your career journey that you would like to pass on to others?
Throughout my 22-year career, I have come to realize that success is not something that comes quickly or easily. Achieving true success takes persistence, dedication, and a willingness to explore new avenues. Whether you are working in the field of business, technology, or any other industry, it is essential to put your best efforts forward every day and to stay up-to-date with the latest trends and challenges.
By doing so, you will not only succeed in your current position, but you will also be well-positioned for future success and growth within your chosen field.
Looking ahead, what are your aspirations and goals for the future, both personally and professionally?
As a member of Tamer Logistics, I am committed to contributing my skills, knowledge, and passion towards the progress and success of the company. I believe that with hard work, dedication, leadership vision, and a strong team, we can achieve our goal of becoming the number one logistics company in Saudi Arabia and the GCC countries.
To this end, I make it a priority to stay up-to-date with industry trends and best practices and to continuously seek out new opportunities for growth and improvement. In addition to my professional aspirations, I also have personal goals related to my family.
I take great pride in the fact that my elder son is pursuing his professional finance education through the ACCA program, and that my younger son aspires to study supply chain and logistics at a foreign university.
I am grateful for the blessings of a supportive family and hope to continue to lead by example, inspiring my sons to pursue their own dreams and achieve success in their chosen fields.
Overall, I am excited about what the future holds and look forward to contributing to the growth and success of both my family and Tamer Logistics.
Connect with Syed Khurram Razvi on LinkedIn.
Find Tamer Logistics on LinkedIn.