PTE #36 - Navigating Business Growth and Leadership with Colleen Japuntich

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 In this episode of Pushing the Envelope, host James Gilman sits down with Colleen Japuntich, President and CEO of NEMA, to talk about her unexpected path to leadership and the challenges of running a growing logistics company. 

Colleen shares insights on everything from adapting to ever-changing industry regulations to building a strong, people-centered culture. 

She offers practical advice on leading with intention and navigating the complexities of compliance in the trucking industry. 

This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to level up their leadership skills or learn more about scaling a business in a competitive field. 

• The Beginnings of NEMA: 

Colleen discusses the origins of NEMA, which was founded in 1988 by Neil, a truck driver who recognized a business opportunity through excellent customer service. 

What started as a niche rush-shipment service for paper mills evolved into a full-scale logistics company.

• Colleen’s Unlikely Journey to Leadership: 

Colleen shares her unconventional career path from massage therapy back into business, leading to an administrative assistant role at NEMA. 

Her diligence and attention to detail quickly helped her move up the ranks to CEO.

• Leadership Through Intentionality: 

Colleen emphasizes the importance of being intentional with her team. 

She discusses her efforts to make time for meaningful interactions, stressing that leadership is about being present and listening to your employees, even in a busy work environment.

• Navigating Industry Regulations: 

A significant portion of the discussion focuses on the complexities of compliance in the trucking and logistics industry, particularly with Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations. 

Colleen explains how NEMA evolved from a low-tech operation to a tech-savvy company capable of handling complex cross-border logistics.

• Adapting and Innovating: 

Colleen explains NEMA's journey from manual operations to leveraging advanced technologies, like Robotic Process Automations (RPAs), to streamline processes. 

This technological evolution helps the company keep up with regulatory changes and customer needs.

This episode provided a fascinating look into Colleen Japuntich’s leadership approach and the growth of NEMA. 

Her story is a testament to perseverance, adaptability, and the power of being intentional with both business operations and personal relationships. 

For anyone interested in leadership, logistics, or personal growth, this episode offers valuable lessons.

Remember, keep learning, thriving and pushing the envelope!

This Show is sponsored by Perimeter Office Products

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