A Day in the Life of

André de Comarmond

Managing Director – Indian Ocean at Velogic

After 18 years at Velogic, André de Comarmond adopts a management approach based on trust, listening and sharing. Overseeing all operations in the Indian Ocean region – an area that now extends to Mauritius, Reunion and Madagascar –, André's days reflect his personality.

“Being a manager is all about supporting, passing on knowledge and helping people grow”

More than just a Managing Director, André sees himself as a sort of compass for his teams: “I provide direction and inspire momentum, but I am lucky to rely on a strong team of Managers. I delegate a lot, while still being present.”

Strategic mornings

His days often start early, with a coffee and an overview of key issues. Mornings are generally devoted to coordinating regional projects, checking in with Sales teams and following up with Field Managers.

André personally monitors his teams and doesn't hesitate to intervene on complex or sensitive issues: acquisitions, optimisation issues at the depot or warehouse, or development projects. “My role is to provide a cross-functional perspective, support and expertise.”

Afternoons on the field

His afternoons are spent attending local meetings: site visits, informal discussions with teams and small group work sessions. It's important for him to know what's happening on the field. “Every job has its own specificities. You must understand them to provide effective support. You don't manage from a distance, you do it with and for the teams.”

During the busy times of the year – such as the end of the year or the sugarcane harvest season, with 600,000 tonnes to transport –, this approach really pays. “These high-pressure periods show how important it is for us to remain agile, rigorous and surrounded by professionals.”

“I have been lucky enough to build a competent, committed and available team. We share experiences and learn together. That's what makes us better collectively.”

André de Comarmond

A human approach to leadership

With over 500 employees under his responsibility, André values a knowledge sharing culture. He attaches particular importance to developing the skills of local talent, convinced knowledge must be shared.

After work: family, nature and sports!

Once the day is over, André returns to his other life – that of a sporty grandad and nature lover. Former player for the Mauritian national football team, he had to hang up his boots after an injury but never left the world of sports.