How to Unlock Your Most Valuable Asset

This episode explores strategies for 3PLs and shippers to improve operational excellence by leveraging their greatest resource—their people. Joe McIntyre shares practical, actionable advice on process optimization, leadership development, and peak season planning.

About the Guest

Joe McIntyre is the Founder of Twelve48, a warehousing and fulfillment consulting firm. He brings 12+ years of experience in logistics, supply chain, and warehouse operations.

Key Topics Discussed

Employee Experience as Customer Experience

In fulfillment operations, how employees feel directly impacts how customers experience your service. The connection is direct and measurable.

Process-Focused Leadership

Leaders should use data to identify root causes rather than blame individuals. Transparent, fact-based conversations create accountability.

Year-Round Peak Planning

Don't wait until Q3 to prepare for peak season. Document forecasts early, plan throughput needs, labor capacity, and emergency responses year-round.

Leadership Team Development

Invest in developing leaders at all levels. The return compounds across the organization.

Technology Implementation Timing

Technology should provide actionable visibility, not just more dashboards. Timing the investment matters.

Labor Pool Expansion

Creative thinking about where to find workers opens opportunities. "The labor pool is limited" is often a lazy excuse.

3PL and Shipper Communication

Both parties must proactively share forecasts, align expectations, and treat relationships as collaborative ventures.

Key Quotes

"The labor pool is changing. The problem is people within operations are choosing not to change with it."

"Employee experience equals customer experience in fulfillment operations."

"Data informs decisions; it shouldn't imprison them or drive blind choices."

"Get creative with labor solutions; laziness isn't an acceptable response."

Key Takeaways

1. Culture impacts bottom line - Employee experience directly influences retention, productivity, safety, and margins
2. Process-focused leadership - Use data for root causes, not blame
3. Peak planning year-round - Document forecasts early and conduct post-season reviews
4. Strategic technology investment - Prioritize fit over features
5. Partnership communication - Proactive sharing strengthens relationships