The ‘Interview on the Ground’ is a self-published series designed to give insight into what life as a Romco employee is really like, including all the intricacies and challenges working for a recycling operation in the emerging markets of Africa. Our first interview subject is the super talented Blessing Onuegbu, Romco’s Head of Logistics.
In the gritty world of non-ferrous metal recycling, the experience of a Romco employee is as multifaceted as it is challenging. Romco, known for transforming post-consumer scrap metal into usable ingots, operates in a dynamic environment where meticulous coordination and a keen understanding of logistics are crucial. To provide a unique insight into this world, we delve into the experiences of Romco’s Head of Logistics, Blessing Onuegbu.
At the heart of Romco’s operations is a commitment to precise and timely delivery. Blessing, who oversees the management of over 30,000 tons (both inbound and outbound) of materials annually, emphasizes the importance of this. She notes, “The successful management of over 2500 container loads necessitates an exacting level of planning and coordination to ensure the timely and precise delivery of products that meet the diverse specifications of our global clientele.” This statement underscores the scale and complexity of the logistics involved in Romco’s operations.
But First: A little background about Blessing Onuegbo:
Blessing grew up in Onitsha, Nigeria, a lively town in Anambra State on the eastern side of the country. When asked what makes it special, Blessing said, “the warmth of the people and the lively energy that fills the streets make Onitsha truly special.”
She continues, “Onitsha isn’t just a town; it’s a spirited, vibrant home that stays with you long after you’ve left its shores. Onitsha is a unique blend of tradition and modernity, a mix of old and new, making it a memorable and very interesting place to grow up.”
And in answer to the best thing about Lagos, now she’s working there? “Lively Entertainment and an innovative Spirit. Lagos offers a vibrant and inclusive entertainment scene, ensuring everyone finds something to enjoy, and it buzzes with an innovative and forward-thinking energy, fostering lots of creativity and growth.”
Blessing joined Romco in 2021, a part of a logistics team that helped usher in double digit growth. Blessing says, “Joining Romco was a thoughtful decision, aligning myself with a company that not only stands as an indigenous industry leader but is also globally focused, reshaping the metals industry in Africa. It’s a company where ethical sourcing and responsible recycling aren’t just buzzwords but form the very core of their operations.”