EllORA SARANGI

Delivering Precision And Perfection in Every Mile

Ellora Sarangi

Chief Operating Officer

Aratt Developers

In mountaineering, reaching the summit is the ultimate goal, but the final phase of the climb is often the most difficult. Climbers must navigate harsh conditions and overcome numerous obstacles. This journey mirrors the complexities faced in supply chain management, particularly in the lastmile logistics phase. This stage is riddled with challenges, especially today with rapid technological advancements, labour shortages, and shifting regulatory landscapes. Addressing these challenges demands strategic planning, innovative thinking and adaptive leadership. Ellora Sarangi, the Chief Operating Officer at Keep Moving Logistics, exemplifies this kind of forward-thinking leadership. Breaking traditional gender norms in the logistics industry, she brings over a decade of experience in managing logistics operations. She has a proven track record of optimising cost efficiency, reducing delays, and ensuring security, all of which enhanced overall performance. Under Ellora’s leadership, Keep Moving Logistics leverages cutting-edge digital solutions and strategic process improvements to strengthen logistics operations. Her approach is characterised by a commitment to sustainability, commercial viability, and a customer-centric focus—qualities that define the most successful COOs today. By blending these skills, she addresses current logistical challenges and positions her organisation for future growth. In our interview, Ellora shares her unique strategy for delivering end-to-end logistics solutions. Head to know her environmentally responsible, commercially viable, and meticulous strategies, tailored to meet customer needs and turn operational excellence into a distinct competitive advantage.

Please share the significant moments in your career that shaped your vision for leadership in logistics operations.

There have been many, but my journey changed during the COVID-19 pandemic, perhaps the most critical time for the logistics sector. As global demand for logistics services surged, we faced the immense challenge of ensuring the timely transportation of essential goods such as medicine, food, groceries, and medical equipment. This experience highlighted logistics’ societal role and deepened my interest in the industry. Additionally, the pandemic derived the digitisation of logistics. People increasingly turned to online solutions for their logistics needs, whether they were relocating their homes or offices. Recognising these dynamics, I was inspired to transition into logistics, driven by a vision to lead in an industry that is not only essential but also continually transforming to meet new demands.

What operational challenges are unique to the last-mile logistics sector, and how are you addressing these inefficiencies?

The last mile is perhaps the most critical yet challenging segment of the logistics journey. Optimising routes to save time and fuel to meet ever-evolving customer demands and, most importantly, technology integration presents many challenges. I have implemented several strategies to manage these inefficiencies.

Advanced Route Planning:Utilising sophisticated algorithms to optimise delivery routes, reducing fuel consumption and delivery times.

Real-Time Tracking: Implementing GPS tracking and real-time updates to keep customers informed and better manage their expectations.

Flexible Delivery Windows: Offering customers flexible delivery time slots to better manage schedules and reduce congestion during peak times. These strategies enhance operational efficiency, meet customer demands, and navigate urban challenges effectively.

What have been the most significant achievements under your leadership at Keep Moving, and how do they align with the company's long-term goals?

One of the most significant achievements under my leadership at Keep Moving Logistics has been the successful transition to an appbased system for our driver-partners and customers. This transition was challenging, particularly in encouraging our driverpartners, who were not tech-savvy. We clearly explained the app’s benefits, such as increased booking opportunities and the potential for higher earnings and provided comprehensive training and support to ease their transition. Simultaneously, we focused on reassuring our customers about the app’s reliability and convenience, even during off-hours. These efforts align closely with our company’s long-term goals of embracing technology to enhance operational efficiency, improve user experience, and expand our market reach. By successfully implementing the app-based system, we have laid a strong foundation for future innovations and growth, ensuring that Keep Moving Logistics remains at the forefront of the logistics industry

What do you consider your greatest strength as a leader, and conversely, what area do you seek to improve and why?

The role of Chief Operating Officer is continually evolving, and every COO must embody these traits to thrive in today’s dynamic business landscape:

Strategic Alignment: The ability to align decisions with company, customers and long-term goals.

Leadership: A great COO plans, executes and empowers employees to not just achieve but exceed.

Operational Expertise:This highlights a deep understanding of market trends and unforeseen challenges.

Problem-Solving:A COO needs a “dragonfly eye” view of the market to address and mitigate problems.

Communication:Conveying ideas clearly and persuasively is fundamental.

Customer Focus:A COO should prioritise customers’ needs and expectations, ensuring that the company consistently delivers exceptional service.

Resilience: Staying focused and driven under pressure is crucial. My strength lies in my ability to shoulder the responsibilities calmly against all odds, with my ever positive approach and communication.I just can’t say that I have excelled but I’m confident I always give my best.