In the dynamic logistics center of the Colón Free Zone, the heart of IVOR Bearings, INT. beats strongly in our warehouse. And no one knows that rhythm better than Jorge, our warehouse chief, who has been a fundamental part of our team for 13 years.
We sat down to talk with him so he could share his experiences, challenges, and the lessons learned while leading the engine of our operations.
Can you tell us an anecdote from your early days and how you’ve seen your role evolve over these 13 years?
One of the things that surprised me most at the beginning was getting to know the product. Before IVOR Bearings established itself as a company in the Free Zone, it was a client of another company where I worked. I was assigned the account and, honestly, I had no knowledge of the world of bearings. I thought it would be an easy client to manage, with little movement.
My surprise was huge when I saw the explosive growth it had. The orders were constant, and the volume of merchandise was enormous. I never imagined that a product like bearings would have such strong demand, not only in Panama but globally. That was my first big lesson here: discovering the incredible magnitude of the industry we move every day.
What has been the most intense challenge you’ve faced managing logistics in the Free Zone?
The biggest daily challenge in the warehouse is time management. We have to have everything prepared—orders, documentation, invoices—for the exact moment the cargo agents arrive to pick up the merchandise. Here, a small delay on our part can cause a client to miss their container’s shipping date, which creates major problems.
We handle many orders for different clients, and each one has its own logistics: land, air, or sea. These are totally distinct processes. That’s why our great challenge and main function is to meet the deadlines for each one, ensuring that the supply chain never stops.
Over these years, what moments have made you truly feel part of the IVOR Bearings ‘family’?
For me, the moment that defined my loyalty to the company was during a very difficult personal situation. My son had to undergo two operations and, naturally, my place was with my family. When I communicated what was happening, the company’s response was immediate: ‘Jorge, stay calm with your family until everything is resolved. We’ll take care of everything here.’
Knowing that you have that unconditional support from your bosses during the most complicated times is priceless. That kind of support generates deep loyalty. Just as they were there for me, they know I’ll always go the extra mile for the company without a second thought. It’s an enormous satisfaction to work in a place that values its people like that.
How do you ensure orders go out perfectly and on time in such a dynamic environment?
In a place like the Colón Free Zone, where everything has a specific drop-off and pick-up time, the key is organization and, above all, having a good work team. When you have a team where every person knows exactly what to do and how to do it, everything flows naturally.
At IVOR Bearings, we’ve managed to build that team. This allows me, as a leader, to focus on other functions without having to worry about every minor detail. The support and coordination among us are essential for logistics to work here.
What unexpected lesson from your job have you applied to your personal life?
One of the most important lessons I’ve learned here has been to improve how I treat people. Before, I had a bit of an explosive temper and didn’t always handle interactions in the best way. Little by little, I’ve learned to mold that.
Now, the staff knows they can count on me, that we can talk, and that they can ask me for advice. It’s very satisfying when people approach you with confidence. This is good on a personal level, but also for the company, because if an employee feels comfortable, they will communicate any problems, and we can look for solutions together. Learning to connect with people has been a very valuable lesson that has helped me become a better person.
If you could give one piece of advice to a new employee who aspires to have a long career in the company, what would it be?
My advice is simple: allow yourself to be guided. Be humble and willing to learn. There are many people who come to a new job saying ‘I know how to do this’ or ‘I know how to do that,’ but in practice, it’s not the case, and even worse, they won’t let themselves be taught.
My recommendation is to let yourself be guided, absorb all the knowledge, and then let your work speak for you. When the bosses see the quality of what you do, the recognition will come. Don’t despair if a year or two passes. At the right time, your effort will be valued.
Finally, how do you feel your role contributes to the success of IVOR Bearings and what are you most proud of?
I believe my drive and my desire to do things well have been my great contribution. Organizing a good work team and feeling like a leader who can take the reins of this area has been very positive for the company and for my personal growth.
When you’ve been in a place for a long time and you see how it grows, and you grow with it, it’s incredibly satisfying. It means you’re doing a good job. I’m proud to have contributed that desire and drive to keep going, and to see how far we’ve come together.
The dedication, experience, and commitment that Jorge demonstrates every day are the standard of quality at IVOR Bearings, INT. Behind every order, there is a team ready to guarantee your merchandise arrives on time and in perfect condition.
Do you need a logistics partner that understands the value of trust and efficiency?
Contact us HERE, call us at +507 4744129 or write us ventas@ivorbearingsint.com
