Full steam ahead for high-flyer Ben Pryor

Versatility is the key to a successful supply chain and logistics operation, according to Ben Pryor, Marine Operations Manager with mining giant BlueScope Steel.

Ben says to be successful a company must be able to adapt to and manage a vast variety and ever changing set of operational, commercial and market parameters.

And Ben should know. He has clearly earned the title of High Achiever during his eight-year stint at BlueScope Steel.

In that time he has been progressively stepping up into management roles delivering great value to his employer.

“I take great pride in performing above expectation,” Ben says.

Last year Ben was named Young Professional of the Year in Australia’s Logistics Industry’s 2010 Mercury Awards.

Ben says companies with healthy supply chains enjoy a variety of cost benefits over their competitors.

“And it also gives a company the ability to offer superior service, he says.

“Supply chains are a differentiating factor for commodities and amongst other things determine market share and the bottom line.”

And a supply chain has the potential to be your Achilles’ heel, he warns.

So how does BlueScope’s logistics operation differ from others?

“BlueScope Steel is a great Australian company and a terrific employer both nationally and abroad, says Ben.

“The most important difference is the company’s absolute belief in ‘Zero Harm’ Safety Principles, something that we pride ourselves on, above all else.”

Ben first became involved in supply chain and logistics during a brief period in a marketing role within the food safety industry.

He started working at BlueScope Steel logistics as a graduate in 2003.

“I worked through analytical and coordination roles,” says Ben.

More recently he has been involved in operations and contract management roles within the Marine Logistics division.

“All my recent roles have, by design, been very broad and encompass both the operational and commercial aspects of our business, he says.

“I really enjoy making operations work efficiently and economically while always delivering the key value drivers for our business.”

His role as Marine Operations Manager presents the ultimate challenge.

Ben manages a large stevedoring contract and operation, a vessel management contract and associated domestic shipping steel supply chain, BlueScope Steel port operations, maritime security and other compliance matters.

The stevedoring operations encompass two port facilities, Port Kembla NSW and Westernport VIC.

Ben plans to continue working in the supply chain management field.

“My future goals are to ensure that I am always challenged in my role or roles and deliver outcomes that make a real impact to the company’s bottom line.”