JAS Worldwide
6195 Barfield Rd.
Atlanta, GA, USA
Meet Jenna Naylor, a luminary at JAS Charleston, whose journey from a customs entry writer to an award-winning business development manager represents the boundless opportunities for growth within JAS.
Jenna's path into logistics was more serendipitous than planned. Initially set on a career in journalism, envisioning herself as a frontline reporter or news anchor, she pursued this track through her college studies. However, a pivotal moment a month before graduation saw her reevaluating her aspirations. "I understood the communications industry, I had success in my work in college, but I didn't want to be a reporter anymore," she reflects. So, in what many can describe as "typical Jenna fashion," she embraced change and dared herself to explore new uncharted waters, literally.
As fate would have it, her first post-college interview landed her a role at a logistics company, where she started as an ocean import specialist. After mastering this role in 1 year, she eagerly transitioned to export, driven by her innate thirst for new challenges.
In 2014, Jenna joined JAS as a customs entry writer, eventually expanding her responsibilities to manage the Charleston branch's air imports while also diving into the intricacies of the quoting process. Her growing expertise across various domains fueled her hunger for growth. "I had worked in customs entry writing, ocean import, ocean export, air import, and quoting. So, I asked myself again, what can I do next?"
Fueled by her desire to tackle new challenges, Jenna set her sights on sales, leveraging her deep understanding of JAS's services. Her dedication was unmistakable as she pursued and earned her customs brokerage license, underscoring both her ambition and JAS's commitment to nurturing internal talent. She continued her path of success, earning new business and slowly growing her client base.
In a proactive sales approach, Jenna launched the #JavawithJenna series on LinkedIn, leveraging her communication background to attract new audiences and generate leads, flipping the traditional cold-calling approach on its head.
Now, in her newly acquired role as the Head of Country Sales for the Automotive Vertical, Jenna continues her quest for growth, always seeking the next challenge to conquer.
In her nearly ten years at JAS, Jenna has flourished in an environment that she describes as eclectic and welcoming—a true melting pot of diverse backgrounds and perspectives. She credits the unique culture of JAS for fostering an environment where collaboration and growth thrive.
Jenna's leadership style is marked by patience—a quality she believes is integral to navigating the complexities of the logistics industry. Her mentor, Brandon Miller, Vice President of Automotive Sales - Americas, has played a pivotal role in shaping her journey, emphasizing the importance of perseverance and passion in achieving success.
Looking ahead, Jenna's focus is on expanding the automotive vertical, a challenge she embraces with enthusiasm, of course. She finds fulfillment in the dynamic nature of logistics, a field that demands constant learning and adaptability. Her advice to aspiring salespeople echoes her own journey: always be closing, challenge yourself to grow, and find joy both in and outside of work.
Jenna Naylor's story embodies the spirit of collaboration, showcasing not just her individual achievements but also the collective strength and support that define the JAS culture. Congratulations, Jenna, on your well-deserved recognition as JAS USA's 2023 Salesperson of the Year and the #1 Global Business Development Manager Earner. Your journey inspires us all to reach greater heights and embrace every opportunity for growth.
JAS has been named a Sapphire Ambassador by the Blue Whales Blue Skies (BWBS) Program, recognizing its outstanding commitment to environmental stewardship and marine conservation. This honor is awarded to companies demonstrating exceptional cooperation in reducing vessel speeds to protect marine life and improve air quality.
BWBS is a collaborative initiative between federal and local government agencies, foundations, and environmental organizations. The program monitors the speeds of vessels 300 gross tons and larger that pass through voluntary Vessel Speed Reduction (VSR) zones each year, awarding recognition based on the percentage of total distance traveled at whale-safe speeds.
"Being recognized as a Sapphire Ambassador is a proud moment for us at JAS. It shows what’s possible when we align our operations with environmental responsibility. A key part of this recognition has been engaging with our carriers—strengthening relationships through a shared commitment to sustainability and making a difference together," Lars Huebecker, EVP Global Head of Ocean Freight, reflects on the recognition.
The Sapphire Ambassador level is awarded to companies whose fleets achieve 85-100% of their total distance traveled within VSR zones at speeds of 10 knots or less. JAS earned this distinction by ensuring that over 90% of its import and export shipments through California ports in 2024 were handled by BWBS-participating shipping lines.
At the annual BWBS awards ceremony held on April 16 at AltaSea in the Port of Los Angeles, JAS proudly received the Whale Tail Award, a symbol of its dedication to sustainable shipping practices. These efforts play a critical role in reducing the risk of fatal whale strikes, lowering air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions, and minimizing underwater noise pollution.
“We’re honored to support the Blue Whales Blue Skies mission and proud of the progress made together with our ocean carriers. Protecting marine life and air quality is essential, and the BWBS team is doing incredible work to bring this to light. It’s a topic that often doesn’t get enough attention in the industry, yet it affects us all," Andrea Goeman, SVP QHSE & Sustainability, emphasizes the importance of the initiative.
As a Sapphire Ambassador, JAS continues to lead by example, demonstrating that sustainability and logistics excellence go hand in hand. This recognition underscores JAS’s broader mission to drive meaningful change within the industry while delivering customer value with integrity and environmental responsibility.
Dubai South, the largest urban master development focusing on aviation, logistics, and real estate, has inaugurated the new regional headquarters for JAS Middle East, a global leader in logistics and supply chain solutions.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by HE Edoardo Napoli, Consul General of the Republic of Italy in Dubai, Biagio Bruni, Founder & Chairman of JAS Worldwide, Mohsen Ahmad, CEO of the Logistics District, Dubai South, Erwin Wittemaier, Area VP of JAS Middle East, as well as other senior executives from both entities.
Designed to set new benchmarks in sustainability, efficiency, and technological innovation, the 19,170-square-meter ‘Build-to-Suit’ facility marks a milestone in the company’s regional expansion. This ESG-compliant warehouse is tailored to meet specific logistics needs, reinforcing the company’s commitment to growth and excellence while enhancing its ability to serve the entire Middle East market.
The facility will include racked and bulk storage, three temperature-controlled chambers, and 12 loading bays with dock levellers and roller shutter doors. Standing over 14 metres at its apex, it will adhere to the latest firefighting regulations. The office space will span two floors. Additionally, solar panels will be installed on the roof of the facility to offset utility costs and allow the property to achieve ESG credentials.
In his comments, Mohsen Ahmad, said: "We are pleased to attend the official opening of JAS Middle East’s new headquarters at Dubai South. This new facility will cater to the UAE and the wider Middle East region through best-in-class logistics solutions. We are proud to see the Logistics District flourishing with global industry leaders such as JAS, recognising the strategic advantages we offer to support their growth and expansion. With its cutting-edge design and ESG-compliant infrastructure, this facility enhances Dubai South's role in shaping the future of aviation and logistics in the region."
Biagio Bruni said: “This facility is a testament to our focus on innovation, sustainability, and excellent service. We are proud to strengthen our presence in this dynamic region and look forward to continuing to support our customers with tailored and innovative logistics solutions."
Representing the pinnacle of logistical innovation encapsulated within a premier infrastructure network, Dubai South’s Logistics District offers premier services and operations as well as uninterrupted access to Jebel Ali Port via a bonded logistics corridor. The district comprises multiple zones, which have direct access to the cargo terminals at Al Maktoum International Airport; EZDubai, a fully dedicated e-commerce free zone; and a Contract Logistics Zone.
As a trusted international freight forwarder, we understand the challenges that come with navigating global trade, especially with the recent announcement of reciprocal tariffs. Now, more than ever, it’s crucial for businesses to stay agile and optimize their supply chains. We are excited to offer you strategic solutions through our Foreign-Trade Zones (FTZs) in the USA and Panama to help mitigate tariff impacts and streamline your logistics.
Take Advantage of Our FTZs in the USA
Our FTZs located across the South, East, and West Coasts of the USA offer unparalleled benefits to help you manage costs, build inventory close to your end-consumer, and remain competitive. Here’s why you should consider utilizing these zones:
Panama as a Key Logistics Hub for the Americas
Additionally, our operations in Panama provide you with access to one of the most important logistics hubs in the Americas. With direct access to the Colon Free Zone and proximity to major shipping routes, Panama offers several advantages for your logistics strategy:
Why This Matters Now
With the new reciprocal tariffs being announced, it’s critical to find ways to lower your exposure to these increasing costs. Both our USA FTZs and Panama operations provide solutions that allow you to store, manage, and distribute goods with significant cost savings, particularly when facing unpredictable tariff changes.
By leveraging our FTZs and Panama’s logistical advantages, you gain flexibility, efficiency, and a competitive edge in today’s rapidly changing global trade environment.
Let’s Talk!
Our team is ready to discuss how our FTZs in the USA and our Panama logistics hub can benefit your business. Don’t wait—take full advantage of these strategic locations and the opportunities they present during these uncertain times.
Contact us today to learn more or schedule a consultation with one of our experts!
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