Luis F. Rodriguez

Container Terminal Operations & Modernization

• Directed container terminal operations, managing planning and execution teams to ensure seamless performance and resource optimization.
• Supported the commercial department in developing new customers in the Beira corridor while guiding the terminal's transition to advanced technologies, including RTGs and OCR systems, to enhance capacity and productivity.

Process Improvement & Cost Reduction

• Prepared the terminal and its standard operating procedures (SOPs) to handle higher volumes and complex challenges.
• Implemented efficient procedures and controls, generating significant cost savings, productivity improvements, and operational efficiencies.

Yard Throughput Optimization

• Enhanced yard throughput by optimizing workflows, improving operational performance, and streamlining resource usage.

Port Expansion & Advisory

• Consulted on projects to expand, modernize, and reorganize the port, contributing to long-term growth and improved infrastructure.

• Supply Chain Management: Oversaw end-to-end supply chain operations, coordinating customers, sourcing, operations, and port and vessel activities to ensure seamless logistics.
• Equipment and Cost Optimization: Supervised maintenance and repair of land equipment and implemented cost-saving measures for high-use items and labor.
• Innovative Process Implementation: Designed fast cool chain procedures to minimize handling of fresh produce, reducing costs and preserving quality while modernizing fruit transfer practices.
• Vendor and Operations Management: Assumed control of land operations from vendors, renegotiated contracts to reduce costs, and introduced procedures for new equipment to enhance vessel productivity and minimize port stay.
• Port Development and Advisory: Consulted on port expansion and modernization projects, including EU-funded initiatives, to improve throughput capacity and vessel loading yields.

• Quality Assurance and Optimization: Preserved the quality of fresh produce by optimizing container use capacity and implementing efficient loading protocols.
• Supply Chain Redesign: Transformed the supply chain for fresh produce by transitioning from dry containers with open tops to reefer containers, improving handling and transfer processes.
• Productivity and Cost Analysis: Conducted in-depth productivity analyses to evaluate port operations, identify inefficiencies, and implement cost-reduction strategies.

• Supplier Sourcing and Cost Reduction: Reduced key operational costs by securing new suppliers and competitive bids for port and land operations rates.
• Performance Metrics Development: Designed and monitored key metrics for intermodal shipping, equipment, maintenance, and repair across Central American ports, achieving yearly operational goals.
• Fleet Optimization and Cost Savings: Implemented guidelines to segregate container fleets by commodity and customer requirements, significantly reducing maintenance and repair (M&R) costs.
• Vendor Management and Contracting: Established new contracting procedures and negotiated service level agreements with depots, trucking companies, and M&R suppliers to enhance service efficiency.
• Customer-Centric Strategies: Developed tailored customer service solutions, addressing the specific needs of high-use VIP customers to strengthen client relationships.

• Logistics and Supply Chain Optimization: Administered purchasing, warehouse, and logistics KPIs, modernized supply chain processes, and implemented material requirements planning systems to improve efficiency and reduce shortages.
• Cost Reduction and Resource Utilization: Reduced packing, shipping, and haulage costs by introducing ISO tank container procedures and promoting the reuse of packing materials, leading to significant savings.
• Strategic Negotiations and Vendor Management: Negotiated contracts with ocean carriers, trucking companies, and vendors for critical materials, ensuring cost-effective and reliable supply chain operations.
• Operational Planning and Forecasting: Prepared logistics quotes, weekly estimates, and forecasts to secure maritime spaces, equipment, and transportation services for reefer and dry cargo shipments.

Positions held:

Container Terminal Manager
Logistics Manager and Maritime Agent
Industrial Engineer Manager