In this edition of Apollo in the Spotlight, we’re delighted to introduce Christine Balandreau, Commercial Director at Transcausse in Marseille, France. With a career shaped by curiosity, adaptability, and a passion for learning, Christine shares her journey into logistics, her views on innovation and trust, and the unique balance she brings to her role and her team.
We’d love to hear your story – how did you started in the logistics world, and what motivated you to stay?
Honestly, I stumbled into logistics by chance. At 20, I was working at Lyon Airport, dreaming of joining an airline so I could travel the world. One day, a group of young guys came to my counter and told me about a new school training students for careers in transportation. I was still very young, and they convinced me that this field could be even more exciting than working for an airline.
So, I handed in my resignation, enrolled in the program, and after a very technical training, I returned to the airport — but this time on the freight side. I’ve never regretted that decision. In logistics, you never get bored — there’s always something happening.
What do you enjoy most about the logistics industry, and what makes your role particularly fulfilling?
For me, logistics is all about constant learning. What I enjoy most is that every single day brings something new to discover. I love checking and verifying information — not only to provide the best possible service to our clients, but also because I’m genuinely curious about their products and innovations.
I also make it a habit to follow economic and political news, as it helps me better understand global events and how they impact transportation. That broader perspective is what makes this field so fascinating and dynamic.
In my role as Commercial Director, I get to wear many hats, which makes the job especially rewarding. I support and guide my teams, stay closely connected with our clients, and take part in developing new services and conducting specific studies. This balance between people, clients, and innovation is what keeps my work both dynamic and meaningful.
What does innovation mean to you in the context of logistics, and how do you foster it in your organization?
For me, innovation is absolutely essential in our industry. We need to constantly adapt to new tools and technologies, which are evolving faster than ever. But innovation goes beyond simply quoting a price to move goods from point A to point B.
It’s about finding creative solutions for our clients and exploring every possible way to stand out from the competition.
What makes a logistics partnership truly successful in your eyes?
When it comes to building a successful partnership with a foreign network agent, trust is the foundation. It has to be a win–win relationship, where both sides benefit equally.
In logistics, we often play the role of both client and supplier at the same time, so mutual respect and balance are essential to making the collaboration truly work.
What advice would you give to young women considering a career in logistics, especially those who may feel intimidated by its traditionally male presence?
At Transcausse, we’ve built a strong balance between men and women, even though the warehouse naturally has more men due to the physical nature of the work. But women should never feel limited to so-called “administrative” roles — we even have a female truck driver on our team.
The industry has evolved a lot over the years. Those very long working hours are now a thing of the past, and today both men and women can balance their professional responsibilities with their personal lives.
What unique strengths do you believe women bring to the logistics field, and how have you seen these strengths play out in your work environment?
I believe women have brought moderation and balance into professional relationships, whether with colleagues or with clients. Their gentler approach often helps in negotiations and can play a key role in preventing conflicts.
At the same time, I think it’s very important to have mixed teams. A well-balanced group of men and women brings out the best in everyone, helps avoid unnecessary tensions, and adds a sense of fun and dynamism to the workplace.
You’ve been with us for a few months now – how has the journey been so far? Any highlights or surprises?
My experience with the Apollo Network has been very positive. I’ve had the pleasure of meeting people who share the same mindset, which has been truly enjoyable. From the very beginning, I felt that members can genuinely rely on one another, and that creates a wonderful sense of trust and community.
What’s a surprising skill, passion, or hobby you have outside work?
I wouldn’t say I have any extravagant passions, but I do love exploring a wide variety of activities. I feel very connected to nature, so I enjoy sports like swimming, trekking, and skiing. I also have a passion for painting, music, and gardening.
The challenge is that I never have quite enough time to explore everything I’d like to try — my curiosity is bigger than my schedule!
Thank you, Christine, for sharing your story with us!