Rebecca Young, Commercial Sales Manager at Pro Despatch, has been at the heart of the depot’s growth since its relaunch. A natural people person with two decades of logistics experience, she combines operational know-how, customer service expertise and sales drive to deliver real results. Her persistence and people-first approach have strengthened the way Pro Despatch runs day to day, helped secure new business and built a reputation for reliability and service excellence.

We caught up with Rebecca to hear more about her career journey, the challenges she’s overcome and what motivates her day to day.

What attracted you to a career in logistics in the first place?

“I never really set out to work in logistics, but once I started, I quickly realised how much I enjoyed it. I loved the variety, the fast pace and the fact that no two days were ever the same. One day you’re dealing with customer queries, the next you’re looking at operations and the day after that you’re out meeting people. That mix kept me engaged right from the beginning.

Most importantly, the thing I started appreciating early on was the people side of it. Logistics gave me the chance to build genuine relationships and support small businesses as they grew. I’ve always believed that people buy from people and this industry allows you to live by that. Twenty years on, I still love the variety and the opportunity to make a difference every day, which is why I’m just as passionate now as I was at the start.”

 

When you joined Pro Despatch, what were some of the first things you focused on to help the business move forward?

“When I first joined Pro Despatch, it was an exciting time of change. The new owners were getting to grips with The APC processes, and there was a real opportunity to build structure and put new systems in place. My focus was on creating that framework so the team had clear processes to support growth and efficiency.

We also had the amazing opportunity to strengthen relationships with our long-standing customers while building new ones along the way. It’s been incredibly rewarding to see that effort pay off - we’ve grown from a small operation to handling hundreds of consignments every night. Establishing those foundations early on, while maintaining strong relationships with our customers, has been key to that success.”

 

What do you think makes someone successful in sales?

“For me, success in sales comes down to persistence and building strong personal relationships. It is about being consistent and staying connected, even when a prospect says no at first, because keeping in touch means you are there when the timing becomes right. Equally important is showing genuine care. Customers want to work with someone they trust, someone who understands their challenges and is committed to helping their business grow rather than simply focusing on a sales target.

I also think it’s my wider experience. I don’t just do sales - I’m involved in operations, HR, invoicing, customer service and even transport. That means when I sit down with a customer, I can give them straight answers: what time a driver can collect, how we’ll handle their freight and what to do if something goes wrong. Customers can see I really understand the depot inside out, and that builds trust.”

 

How have you managed the balance between being a new mum and your role at work?

“Balancing work with being a new mum has definitely been a juggling act, but the team has been amazing throughout. My little boy has just turned one, and while there have been challenging days, the support I’ve had has made everything so much more manageable.

The flexibility to adjust my hours meant I could prioritise my family without stepping away from the business. It gave me the chance to keep our customers happy, progress in my career and still be there for my son during those important moments. Without that understanding and support, I don’t think I’d have managed both as well as I have, and for that, I’m really grateful.”

 

What do you do to switch off?

“Outside of work, everything centres around family time. I love spending time with my husband and my little boy, whether that’s going out for a meal, heading to the park or planning our next holiday together.

Life looks very different now from how it used to be. I was always out late, socialising and travelling, but these days I find the most joy in the simple things - cosy nights in, watching films, hot chocolates and just being together. Watching my little boy grow, say new words, or take his first steps has been such a special part of this past year. Those moments mean the most to me and give me the balance and motivation I need.”

For media enquiries please email apc-team@schonandco.com.