Operations director passes torch after 42 years at Meachers Southampton

Rob Lewis, operations director at Meachers Global Logistics in Hampshire, has retired after a long and successful career with the company spanning 42 years.

He was given a fond farewell at the end of March, while a warm welcome has been extended to Sean Farrell, who joins Meachers as import manager.

Rob started work in the industry in 1972, before joining Oast Agencies in 1980 and continuing on as general manager when Meachers acquired Oast in 1989.

He then progressed to a directorship with Meachers, heading up the freight forwarding function of the business.

During his career, Rob was regional chairman of The Institute of Export and the British International Freight Association, and served on national committees of BIFA.

“My first ever job in the industry was for the princely sum of £14 per week”, he recalled.

“Back then, it was still based on moving paperwork around customs and excise, shipping lines and the dock company by hand.  

“The changes between 1972 and 2024 would’ve been unimaginable. Fax machines were in their infancy, computers and mobile phones just a pipe dream.

“There were no emails, but we did have Telex, which moved onto preparing messages with tickertape, then messages on a screen. All very high-tech at the time!” 

“I’ve enjoyed a long and fulfilling career with Meachers and will miss working with my brilliant team in freight forwarding and colleagues across the company.

“It’s been an honour working in the fast-paced logistics sector, with Meachers at the helm, and I leave with plenty of happy memories.”

Rob is planning to enjoy retirement with his family and looks forward to spending more time travelling abroad, volunteering and supporting Southampton FC.

Meachers chairman Bob Terris added: “Much has changed in our industry over the past 40 years and Rob has encompassed these changes to expand and progress the business.

“We thank him for his commitment and wish him a happy retirement.” 

Mark Lee is now set to take over heading up the freight forwarding activities.

He’ll be using his experience to drive the business forward and implement new freight forwarding software to improve functionality and visibility for both staff and clients. 

Meanwhile, as the new import manager, Sean Farrell will look after a team of five in the freight forwarding department.

He brings to the role keen leadership skills and commercial awareness – having spent 13 years at Delamode (Import Services), where he’s been freight forwarding manager for the past five years.