Alumni Success Story – Ángel Castillo, ZLOG 2022 and Logistics Specialist at Red Bull. See profile on Linkedin
The master provided me with a perspective on the processes and challenges that all companies face. During the master’s program, we were able to examine the entire supply chain, using business cases and delving into the math behind the solutions. This gave me a framework to understand the operational processes within the company.
Ángel, could you share with us what motivated you to pursue the MIT-Zaragoza Master of Engineering in Logistics and Supply Chain Management (ZLOG), and how did you decide that it was the right fit for your career aspirations?
I received the final motivational push to take time off for a master’s degree during the COVID-19 pandemic. I figured it was the right time to focus on developing new skills. I decided that a master’s in logistics was the right fit for my career, given my university background in business and my job experience in logistics and project management.
Reflecting on your professional journey, how has the ZLOG program contributed to your current role as a Logistics Specialist at Red Bull?
Personally, the biggest gain I got from the master’s was the opportunity to interact with an international cohort. Having worked only in a regional company, the dynamics of working in a truly international environment became key assets in my current role.
Another important point is that the master’s provided me with a perspective on the processes and challenges that all companies face. During the master’s program, we were able to examine the entire supply chain, using business cases and delving into the math behind the solutions. This gave me a framework to understand the operational processes within the company.
Logistics can be incredibly complex, especially in a dynamic company like Red Bull. What are some of the unique challenges you face in your day-to-day operations, and how do you address them?
I have an operational role, my goal is ensuring that the goods reach the market and we are never running out stock. The biggest challenge are supply chain disruptions, which are often systemic problems. My approach is to first determine whether the issue is a one off or if it will become the new normal. Before making a decision, I gather as much information as possible and ensure that I understand our capabilities and the market constraints to arrive at a solution.
Considering your successful transition from Peru to Austria, what advice would you give to current and prospective ZLOG students about embracing international career opportunities?
My advice to students is that moving to a new country is always daunting, but if you don’t take the next step, you could be missing out on an amazing opportunity to learn more about yourself.
Of course, before moving, do your research and make sure the place you are considering fits the lifestyle you’re looking for. If you are still missing information, ask around among your friends; most likely, someone in your network knows the place or, even better, has already lived there.
Lastly, could you describe your overall experience at the Zaragoza Logistics Center? What were some of the most valuable skills or lessons you learned that you’ve been able to apply in the fast-paced environment at Red Bull?
It was a fantastic experience to have the opportunity to study, interact, and party with so many incredible classmates. Learning from their experiences, which came from so many different industries and profiles, was a huge gain in my development.
From the perspective of hard skills, I find that having the knowledge to explain my decisions in financial terms, while making sure that there is a solid numerical reason for choosing this path going forward, are the best tools in any company.
