Inside Alfa opens the door to the people and stories that define our network. In this edition, we feature Jaime Pastor, Managing Director of Incargo SL in Spain, whose journey in maritime logistics began at a remarkably young age. From family roots in ship owning to building an international operation across multiple countries, Jaime shares reflections on growth, change, and why—despite digital transformation—the human factor remains at the heart of logistics.
We’d love to hear your story – how did you get started in the logistics world, and what motivated you to stay?
I started in the maritime and logistics business at a very young age, probably when I was 13 or 14 years old. My father was a shipowner and operator, and his office was very close to our home. I remember going to the office, listening to conversations, and helping to pass the telex tapes.
The business was very different back then compared to today, but I learned a lot about maritime chartering. After finishing university, I fully joined the family business and, at the age of 23, I moved to Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, where I gradually began to develop the business. I remember traveling frequently to Mauritania and Morocco.
The company grew little by little and became international, until reaching what we are today, operating in 11 countries. It has been a demanding journey, with both challenges and joys, but if I weigh everything together, I truly believe it has been a wonderful journey that allowed me to see the world and meet many people. I have always been motivated by doing new things.
What do you see as the biggest challenge in logistics today, and how do you think the industry is handling it?
Logistics is currently undergoing a major transformation process driven by digitalization. This change is inevitable and will soon be fully integrated into our daily lives. However, I believe the human factor will continue to play a very important role.
What technology do you believe will play the biggest role in reducing logistics’ environmental footprint?
There are major challenges in our sector. As mentioned before, digitalization is a key factor, but the use of new green fuels will also play a crucial role in significantly reducing the environmental footprint. For this to be truly effective, it must be implemented globally. If only certain countries apply these measures, we will not achieve global benefits.
New fuels and environmental regulations are costly, and their implementation could have a strong economic impact on some countries. As a result, we will likely see major changes in logistics hubs worldwide.
Do you believe AI will replace certain logistics roles, or simply empower them? Why?
For now, AI will greatly support us and significantly change our work patterns and employment models. However, I believe the human factor will remain essential and will continue to play a fundamental role.
What’s one piece of advice you would give to someone just starting in your line of work?
I would advise anyone starting out to first and foremost be a good person, with strong moral values. They should invest in proper education, especially in languages and technology, and start from the ground up to truly understand what happens in our sector.
What’s one thing you enjoy most about being a member of this community?
What I enjoy most about being part of this community is meeting new people and cultures, learning from them, traveling, and discovering the world. You always learn something new, and that motivates me greatly and encourages me to keep moving forward.
If you had to describe this network to a new contact or colleague in one sentence, what would you say?
A strong network with a good number of members who support each other — very useful.
What’s one thing your colleagues would be surprised to learn about you?
I used to be a good football player — a strong finisher inside the penalty area. Unfortunately, time has passed and I no longer play.
Thank you, Jaime, for sharing your experience and insights with us.
