The New Vice President of Omida Solutions on His Career Path, Management Approach, and Plans for the Development of Warehouse Logistics in the OMIDA Group
We are pleased to introduce the new Vice President of Omida Solutions – Szymon Mikołajczak – who brings to our organization over 20 years of experience in contract logistics. He has managed international projects and developed warehouse operations in global companies such as TNT, H&M Logistics, CHEP, and FM Logistic. Now, he is taking on a new challenge – to bring new momentum to the development of warehousing services within the OMIDA Group.
In this conversation, he talks about his unconventional career path, his approach to management, core values, and what influenced his decision to choose OMIDA Solutions as the place for his next professional chapter.
Your journey into logistics had a rather unconventional beginning. How did it all start?
Szymon: Completely by accident. During a gap year in the UK, I ended up at the distribution center for Primark & Pennies. I started from the bottom – as a warehouse worker – but quickly moved up through the organizational ranks, gaining experience in operations and management. The environment drew me in – it was dynamic, full of challenges, and entirely free of routine.
What was the turning point during your work abroad?
Szymon: Transitioning from operational work to the warehouse administration department, which was responsible for implementing a new WMS system. That experience gave me insight into logistics from a process and technology perspective. Over time, I took on roles as Team Leader and then Shift Manager. It was then that I realized the tremendous potential of well-designed processes and teams – and that I wanted to return to Poland to apply my experience locally.
What were your next steps after returning to Poland?
Szymon: I first joined H&M Logistics, where I gained valuable experience in e-commerce and managing large-scale warehouse operations. Then I began a 7-year journey with CHEP – a global leader in pallet and container pooling. There, I held various roles – from Asset Management to European Key Account Manager. I had the opportunity to work with key clients and manage complex project portfolios on an international scale. I value this time especially for the high organizational standards and a culture deeply invested in skills development and people – something I benefited from many times myself.
How have those experiences influenced your approach to management?
Szymon: They confirmed my belief that people are the greatest asset of any organization. Technologies, systems, and structures are important, but it’s the teams – their knowledge, skills, and attitude – that determine success. I know how to build environments that not only deliver results but also grow sustainably over time.
And then came FM Logistic?
Szymon: Yes – that was another significant stage, where I worked on large, often transformational projects for clients. From initial outsourcing implementations to supply chain optimization. I had the opportunity to co-design solutions and transition operations while maintaining full continuity and efficiency. That brought great satisfaction – the awareness that together we were creating practical business value through real-world solutions.
What made you decide to join Omida Solutions?
Szymon: Above all – the opportunity for further growth and to have a real impact on the direction the organization is heading. At Omida Solutions, I can co-create a modern, independent warehouse structure that will be an equal and complementary partner to other areas of the Group’s operations. Together with Norbert Ołtarzewski, President of Omida Solutions, we share a development vision where warehouse logistics is not just a supplement to freight forwarding services but one of the key pillars of the entire OMIDA Group – scalable, innovative, and ready for the challenges of the modern market.
What are your key priorities in your new role?
Szymon: Efficiency, quality, and the development of services based on the most advanced, tailor-made solutions. And, of course, the team – because the best systems are only tools. You need people who understand processes, think creatively, and can navigate a dynamic environment like logistics effectively.
What kind of leader are you?
Szymon: A partner. I like clear principles and open communication. I expect a lot, but I also provide a lot of support. A leader doesn’t need to have all the answers – they need to create an environment where the team works together to find those answers.
And personally?
Szymon: I’m based in Poznań – it’s my home. I work in an international environment, but regardless of the scope of the projects, my home is where my family is – and that’s my constant point of reference.
This conversation with Szymon Mikołajczak offers not only insight into his impressive professional journey but also a clear statement about the direction in which the warehouse logistics segment of the OMIDA Group is headed. We are proud to enrich our management team with someone of such broad experience, strategic vision, and strong focus on developing people and modern operational structures. We are confident that a period of dynamic transformation lies ahead, further strengthening Omida Solutions as a solid pillar of the entire OMIDA Group.