Experts you should know: Ken Spicer

In this series, we will introduce you to resident experts at Quantix who are contributing daily to our vision as the leading supply chain services company to the chemical industry. These team members provide insights into their professional journey and share the rewarding aspects of working in the chemical industry.

Meet Ken Spicer.

Ken Spicer, a Sr. Director of Operations at Quantix brings over 32 years of experience in the chemical industry. His journey began as a Navy flight engineer, where he gained valuable skills that later translated into a successful career driving commercial trucks. Today, Ken leads operations at Quantix, overseeing a central support system that manages customer orders, fulfillment processes (including loading, unloading, and transportation), and driver support. His team manages central support for liquid and plastic materials, assisting drivers on the road and overseeing a maintenance team that handles equipment breakdowns. Essentially, if a driver encounters an issue, Ken’s team is there to get them back on track.

What motivated you to enter the industry?

I joined the industry as a truck driver and worked my way up through various roles. What initially motivated me to enter the industry was a combination of factors. Firstly, I had a keen interest in understanding the intricate processes involved in transporting chemicals safely and efficiently. Secondly, I was drawn to the challenge of managing the complex supply chain logistics specific to the chemical sector. These motivations fueled my decision to embark on a career in the chemical industry, where I could leverage my skills and experiences to make a positive impact.

What do you find most rewarding about working in this industry?

One of the aspects of my work that I find most rewarding is the opportunity to build lasting relationships with colleagues, clients, and industry peers who share a common passion for excellence in the chemical industry. Collaborating with like-minded individuals and working together towards achieving shared goals is incredibly fulfilling. The sense of camaraderie and shared purpose within the industry is what drives me to continuously strive for improvement and innovation in my work.

What do you consider your area of expertise?

In my area of expertise, my focus lies mainly in the transportation and operations side of the chemical industry. Over the years, I have honed my skills in managing transportation logistics, overseeing terminal operations, and optimizing supply chain processes to ensure the safe and efficient delivery of chemicals to various destinations. My experience in these areas has equipped me with a deep understanding of the complexities and challenges inherent in chemical transportation, allowing me to devise effective strategies and solutions to address them.

Can you share a notable success story or project that has been particularly impactful in your career?

I have had the privilege of working on numerous projects and leading successful initiatives that have contributed to the growth and efficiency of the operations I have been a part of. These experiences have shaped my career journey and allowed me to continuously strive for improvement and innovation in the logistics field.

One notable success story in my career is the transformation of the transportation management team at Univar Solutions. I played a key role in building and mentoring a high-performing team of transportation managers, guiding them to success through effective leadership and strategic decision-making. Witnessing the team members’ growth and development and seeing them excel in their roles was immensely gratifying. The fact that former team members still seek my guidance and advice demonstrates the lasting impact of effective mentorship and leadership in fostering professional growth and success.

­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­___________________

Ken’s story exemplifies the value of hard work, dedication, and building relationships. His expertise in transportation, combined with his military experience, has shaped him into a seasoned professional who continues to inspire and guide others in Quantix and the industry.