Inside Nagel

From Intern to Executive: The Path to Becoming a Site Manager

From Getting Started to Success

On Logistics Day, we shine a spotlight on the people who shape our industry—and especially on women who are successfully carving out their own paths in logistics.

Sarah Welz is a prime example of this trend: From her start as an intern to her current role as site manager, she took on responsibility early on and actively shaped her career. Today, her leadership style is characterized by decisiveness, dedication, and team spirit. She has been part of the Nagel-Group for nearly 18 years, driven by a sense of camaraderie, opportunities for growth, and the conviction that diversity and expertise will shape the future of logistics.

Can you give us some insight into how your journey at the Nagel Group began, particularly when you started as an intern almost 18 years ago?

After I was accepted into the apprenticeship program for freight forwarding and logistics services, I was offered a full-time position as an intern in customer service. This experience gave me early, hands-on insights into workflows and processes, allowed me to take on responsibility quickly, and prepared me perfectly for the start of my apprenticeship. At the same time, I was warmly welcomed into the team, which allowed me to lay the foundation for my future career at the Nagel-Group.

Were there any pivotal moments or decisions that significantly influenced your career development?

The trainees at the Kehl site had clearly defined areas of responsibility, and working independently was a requirement from the very beginning. This organizational structure provided them with early opportunities to take the initiative, critically examine processes, and actively help shape changes and adjustments.

Durch die früh übertragene Verantwortung habe ich gelernt, mich herausfordernden Situationen selbstbewusst zu stellen, Lösungen zu entwickeln und Verantwortung für Entscheidungen zu übernehmen. Diese Erfahrungen haben meine berufliche Entwicklung maßgeblich geprägt und meinem heutigen Anspruch an eigenverantwortliches, strukturiertes Arbeiten nachhaltig beeinflusst.

Take Responsibility, Shape the Future

In your opinion, what are the most important qualities a successful site manager should have?

To me, conviction, a sense of responsibility, and strong decision-making skills are the key qualities of a successful site manager, combined with a passion for taking on responsibility and actively shaping the way things are done.

Women in Logistics: Your Path to a Thriving Industry

Were there any particular challenges or opportunities that you encountered as a woman in logistics?

Logistics remains a male-dominated industry, which presents both challenges and opportunities. I still see the biggest challenge today as gaining acceptance, particularly on the operational floor of the warehouse.

At the same time, our organizational structure presented a unique opportunity from the very beginning: the proportion of women was very high early on, which meant that female leaders in particular were seen as visible role models. This presence played a key role in fostering acceptance and building trust. In my view, women in leadership positions often bring a high degree of empathy and sensitivity to the table. Especially in key positions, this strengthens collaboration, boosts motivation, and makes leadership more effective overall. What is always crucial, however, is professional competence, attitude, and a willingness to take on responsibility.

What advice would you give to women who are interested in pursuing a career in logistics?

My advice to women who are pursuing a career in logistics is: persevere, keep going, and be confident in your own abilities. It’s important to actively take on responsibility and seize opportunities, even if the path is sometimes challenging.

In my view, professional expertise, reliability, and decisiveness are the key factors for success, regardless of gender. Anyone who is willing to take on responsibility, act decisively, and stand up for their causes has excellent opportunities for growth in logistics.

What does it mean to you personally to serve as a role model in your role as site manager?

As a site manager, I am aware that my actions have an impact, both professionally and personally. To me, being a role model means demonstrating integrity, making decisions in a transparent manner, and remaining reliable—especially in everyday situations. I want to show that leadership in logistics is built on competence, commitment, and respect.

18 Years of Passion

You've been part of the Nagel Group for almost 18 years. What made you decide to stay with the company for so long?

Over the years, the Nagel Group has provided me with opportunities for growth, trust, and responsibility. The strong sense of camaraderie and the family-like atmosphere at the site have shaped my sense of belonging to the company just as much as the opportunity to grow both professionally and personally.

What still motivates you in your day-to-day work?

I am motivated every day by new challenges, as well as by the strength and cohesion of the team. Working together, mutual trust, and the ability to overcome challenges as a team are key drivers for me in my day-to-day work.

Looking Back with Pride, Looking Ahead

What developments would you like to see in the logistics industry, particularly with regard to diversity and the advancement of women?

I hope for a logistics industry in which diversity doesn’t need to be explained, but is simply a given. An industry in which women can and want to take on leadership roles, and in which successful leadership is defined by attitude, professional competence, and personal commitment—regardless of gender.