Drones key to consultancy’s development

Lynn and Kieron Parnell, co-directors of Logistics Partners Consultancy, are planning to disrupt the supply chain sector by improving safety and productivity within warehouses using cutting-edge airborne technology.

“Kieron has worked as a Chartered Engineer in the aerospace industry for 30 years – flight-testing and certifying aircraft such as the Harrier and Typhoon,” explained Lynn, who founded the business in September 2000.

“He came on board with me last March and has recently acquired expertise in piloting drones. As the business enters its third decade, we want to be amongst the first within our sector to find practical applications for this exciting technology.” 

Having worked for logistics providers and software suppliers, Lynn decided at the turn of the millennium to set up her own consultancy. Her intention was to help customers to apply clear processes and use computer systems and technology effectively.  

She immediately secured a contract with Musgrave Group – Ireland’s largest grocery distributor – planning and executing the currency conversion from Pound to Euro. 

Logistics Partners’ varied client base has since grown to include ecommerce brands such as Temple Spa, as well as Heathrow Airport. Lynn’s implementation of a market-leading delivery management system for one of Europe’s largest construction sites at Battersea Power Station recently led to industry recognition in the form of a finalist placing at the 2020 CILT Awards for Excellence.

“We are delighted to have been acknowledged in the ‘Technology Innovation’ category for our contribution towards the restoration of the iconic Battersea Power Station,” said Lynn, who became a Chartered Fellow of the CILT in 2007. 

“The timing of this news couldn’t be more perfect as we prepare to celebrate our 20-year anniversary. It’s up there with so many highlights – including becoming a pro bono ambassador for the not-for-profit organisation Transaid, which aims to transform lives through safe, available and sustainable transport. I am passionate about making sure everyone in our industry knows about them!” 

The only female on her graduate management programme, Lynn has welcomed the growing number of women joining the logistics sector since she secured her first role in 1990. 

“Back then, women managers were really scarce… I remember one depot didn’t even have a ladies’ toilet!” she recalled. “It was tough at times, but I forged an identity all of my own. These days, there is more of a 50-50 split on a lot of graduate schemes, which is great to see. All six of the associates we work alongside at Logistics Partners happen to be female.”  

Operating out of their base in Soham, Cambridgeshire Lynn and Kieron are now hard at work developing their new drone offering. 

“I am proud of Lynn and all that she has accomplished since 2000,” said Kieron. “It was a dream of ours to run the business together. Now we are co-directors, we are excited to explore what works best for the industry and launch a drone service that matches our customers’ requirements.”

The finals of the CILT Awards for Excellence have been postponed until March 2021.