Dan Dunstan, Regional Logistics Manager

With the current economy issues, driver and material shortages and restrictions affecting growth, many would agree that driving the efficiency of a logistics fleet seems impossible! But it isn’t for Minster Regional Logistics Manager, Dan Dunstan. For Dan, the issues over the last 18 months have only fuelled his passion further: 

“My first role within the logistics industry was back in 2007 and it’s fair to say that on a practical level, things have changed exponentially since then. Technology, environmental pressures, regulations and customer expectations have all shaped practices and behaviours, but the overall objective remains the same; achieving optimum operational performance by driving increased efficiencies, optimising inventory and improving our logistics network is what we are striving to achieve.

“In any business, the logistics division facilitates the commercial side of the business but at Minster the link between the two must be seamless. Without efficient transportation, storage and distribution we simply cannot fulfil our orders and continue to grow at the rapid rate we are experiencing. The last 18 months have been the ultimate test of our resilience and abilities – lockdowns, driver shortages and huge increases in demand have really challenged our practices.  As a fairly new business we’ve had to establish our credibility quickly but also adapt to change. Every skill we’ve ever learned has been tested but thanks to the ability, passion and dedication of our team we’re smashing it. It’s been an exhilarating process.”

Dan’s career history spans across many roles in the industry: “My first role within Saint-Gobain was back in 2009 when I joined Jewson as a Management Trainee and then later spent a number of years working within the IT department as a trainer and analyst. Whilst completely different to logistics management, the experience has been a key part of my drive and motivation. I have experienced operations in branch first-hand, understand the logistical challenges the teams face and have developed a great understanding of the building materials and distribution industry as a whole.  It also enabled me to build many valuable relationships with colleagues across the group which have proved to be valuable in my role today.”

Looking to the future, Dan is excited about the expansion of Minster and the opportunities this presents. “Our solutions-based approach is really driving business growth and as such logistical requirements are constantly evolving. I’m enjoying the challenge this presents and the opportunity for me to be part of a dynamic and forward-thinking team.”

Connect with Dan Dunstan