Full Speed Ahead for Logistics

Margot Mohr has been in logistics for 18 years. The path she took into this area was rather unusual – with a background in law, she switched to scheduling where she discovered her passion for the industry. "I soon realised that logistics is not just about transport, but also about finding clever solutions to make things more efficient – that's what got me interested right from the start." She quickly advanced, first in sales, then in operational management. She recently joined ÖBB Production, where she is responsible for the production of international block trains.

Clémentine Renault, a native of France, joined RCG nine years ago. After a few years working for a truck haulage company, she gained her first experience in scheduling and sales at RCG before moving to Service Design, where she now leads a team and helps develop innovative logistics solutions. She is particularly fascinated by the fast pace of her work: "Logistics is an area where you have to be quick. You get a certain adrenaline rush when it comes to finding solutions. I love constantly facing new challenges."

But what makes railways so exciting?

"The complexity!" all three agree. "It's never just about the railway. You’ve also got truck pre-carriage, terminals and international coordination." Margot puts it in a nutshell: " A truck can simply signal and move aside. But a train can’t do that. This makes our work more challenging, but also more exciting." Clémentine adds: "It's all about technology, strategy and teamwork. The railways connect people and markets – throughout Europe." Lucia shares this opinion: "It's about much more than just transport. We make sure that everything runs smoothly, whether in Austria, Romania or Italy. The processes have to be right – and that's what makes it so fascinating."

Do you need a degree in logistics to pursue a career in railway logistics?

All three give a clear answer: no. "Of course, a degree can help, but it's not a must," says Margot, who, having changed careers, can look back on a long career without a degree in logistics. "The railway industry is so diverse that you learn a lot on the job." Clémentine did actually study logistics in France, but she also emphasizes: "I actually learned most of what I know on the job. Curiosity, a willingness to learn and the ability to think your way into complex processes are more important than having a specific degree." Lucia also comes from a completely different background: "I studied law, but I actually started working for a haulage company in Romania straight after graduating. In logistics, many things involve 'learning by doing' and that makes it more accessible for anyone interested."

Yet the stereotype persists that logistics is a male-dominated field. What do you say to that?

"The cliché persists, but it's just a cliché," says Clémentine. "That may have been the case once, but it has long since changed." Margot sees a clear development: "In the past, management positions were predominantly held by men. That also shaped the culture. Today, what counts is what you can do – not what gender you are. If you’re prepared to take on responsibility and develop yourself further, you can go far at RCG." Clémentine adds: “There’s a huge variety of professions. We work with technicians, dispatchers and the sales force – and that's exactly what makes railway freight transport so exciting." Lucia summarizes: "An incredible number of women work in railway logistics, in all areas. We are not the exception, but have long represented the situation as a whole. We have a strong corporate culture that allows us to grow as a team."

Are you also “railway fans” (ferros) in private?

Margot, Clémentine and Lucia are also "ferros" – colloquial for "railway fans". "We love the railways!" says Margot. "You simply can't escape this fascination." Clémentine laughs: "It starts off harmlessly – and suddenly you find yourself analysing train connections and finding out about new wagon models." For Lucia, one thing is certain: "Once you start working in railway logistics, you develop a special connection to the railway – one that never fades."

Tips for young talents?

"Flexibility, a willingness to learn and the ability to adapt," says Lucia. "Negotiating skills and a good network are also important." Clémentine advises: "You have to find creative solutions. The railway system is very complex, but there’s always a way." Margot adds: "Networking, learning from experienced colleagues. Mentoring programmes help enormously. That’s another great advantage at ÖBB."

Three emojis for the job?

Three women, three inspiring stories – and one message: railway logistics is exciting, diverse, and full of opportunities. Finally, it’s time to get creative again, because emojis say more than a thousand words. Margot, Clémentine and Lucia soon agreed on the three emojis that best describe their job:

🚂 The locomotive – because railways are our world.
❤️ Passion – because we are passionate about logistics.
🌍 The world – because we think and work internationally.

Curious about a career on the railway? You can find all the information you need here.