A big family
How did you experience this first year?
Maxime: I can say that it was a very enriching experience. Before joining VPD, I worked in an alarm centre where I was mainly in contact with customers and sometimes had to call the police. So, the transport sector was completely new to me, but I really enjoy it. I discovered that the world of transportation is much more dynamic than I had imagined.
I was also surprised to see that VPD is a large company that maintains a family atmosphere. Many large companies want to maintain this proximity, but they do not always succeed. It's different here: everyone knows each other, the atmosphere is pleasant, and everyone has the opportunity to develop.
It's a real satisfaction when everything works as planned.
What is your role as a dispatcher?
Maxime: We are the first support for drivers. If they encounter a problem on the road, we are the ones they contact. This could be a breakdown, an unexpected traffic jam, a major detour due to roadworks or even a problem with the loading or delivery of goods. Our mission is then to react quickly and find solutions so that delivery takes place despite everything.
If a driver reports sick in the morning, we have to take immediate action: find a replacement or completely reassign the routes.
On a quiet day, we have a few minor incidents to deal with. But on busy days, several trucks may be stuck at the same time. In these cases, you have to be responsive and creative. Stress resistance is a key element of our work.
I don't like to disappoint customers: for me, every delivery must arrive on time. That's why I feel great satisfaction when everything goes as planned or when we've managed a problem so efficiently that the customer didn't even notice.
What works well and what challenges do you face?
Maxime: We have daily contact with the back office and other teams, and this collaboration is going very well. We have all the technical tools necessary to do our job well and we regularly attend training courses. For example, we recently had training on respect and best practices in the workplace. This is the kind of initiative that I really appreciate.
Of course, there are also challenges, as in any business. It is by constantly communicating, both internally and with our customers, that we progress together.
VPD is a place where you quickly feel at home.
Why did you choose VPD?
Maxime: I found this job offer on Instagram and was looking for a new challenge. The diversity of tasks and the flexibility of the position really appealed to me. From the first interview, I had a very good feeling: this is where I want to be! A year later, this feeling is only confirmed.
VPD is a company where you quickly feel at ease. There is the opportunity to develop and take on responsibilities.
What is a highlight of your experience?
Maxime: In a year, we experience many situations, both challenges and successes. I remember one day when three trucks broke down. It was a real headache to manage, but in the end, everything turned out well. These kinds of experiences show how essential a good team spirit is.
What does the future hold for you?
Maxime: I don't know exactly what position I'm moving to yet, but one thing is certain: I want to stay at VPD. There are many opportunities for development here. In addition, the work-life balance is well respected.
A message for future colleagues?
Maxime: If you enjoy solving problems and finding solutions, this job is for you! It can be demanding, but you will never be alone. The team spirit here is very strong. It's sometimes intense and fast-paced, but the satisfaction of seeing everything work is enormous.
I couldn't have asked for a better place to work.