The Miles and Mentors Podcast

From Driver's Seat to C-Suite | Colby Varley | Ep 21

Colby Varley · December 24, 2024

Entrepreneur · Leadershipin

Interview with Colby Varley

From Driver's Seat to C-Suite | Colby Varley | Ep 21

Podcast: The Miles and Mentors Podcast

December 24, 2024

In Episode 21 of The Miles and Mentors Podcast, Alex Powers sits down with Colby Varley, Vice President and Principal at Advanced Transportation Services, Inc. (ATS). Colby shares his remarkable journey in the perishable freight transportation industry, from hands-on experience…

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Key topicsMaintaining Quality in High-Stakes LogisticsColby emphasizes the importance of operational excellence and best practices to ensure that every shipment is handled with care and precision. He highlights the role of strong relationships with clients and carrier partners, underlining the value of trust and communication in delivering exceptional service. Drawing from his extensive experience, Colby shares actionable insights into navigating industry challenges, such as temperature control and unexpected delays, and explains how proactive measures and innovative solutions ensure reliability and success even in demanding circumstances. Navigating a Career in Logistics: From Truck Driving to Executive LeadershipColby’s journey from truck driver to Vice President and co-owner of ATS is a testament to the opportunities for growth and advancement in the logistics industry. His career path demonstrates the importance of hands-on experience and continuous learning, which have shaped his leadership style and deep understanding of every operational aspect. Through his story, Colby highlights the value of resilience, adaptability, and a customer-centric approach to business. He also provides aspiring professionals with practical advice on navigating their career paths, emphasizing the role of hard work, perseverance, and building trust in achieving leadership success. The Power of Premium Service in a Price-Driven IndustryBy emphasizing the long-term benefits of premium service, such as increased reliability, efficiency, and satisfaction, Colby challenges the prevailing notion that cheaper is always better. He showcases how his company’s commitment to excellence has not only attracted discerning clients seeking superior value but has also set a new standard of quality that competitors aspire to emulate. This focus on prioritizing quality over cost demonstrates the critical role that leadership plays in establishing and maintaining high standards in competitive industries. View all topics →

About Colby Varley

Redefining Excellence in Refrigerated Transportation

40+ years ATS refrigerated freight track record97% On-time deliveries2 industry awards Blue Book & Food Chain DigestVP & co-owner ATS refrigerated transportation

Colby Varley is a seasoned leader in the refrigerated transportation sector, currently serving as Vice President and co-owner of ATS, a premier non-asset-based carrier that has been an established brand for over 40 years. Colby’s unique background combines hands-on experience with strategic leadership, having risen through the ranks from truck driving to executive management. His journey began in the produce offices where his father worked, instilling a lifelong passion for logistics and a deep understanding of the industry’s intricacies.

Colby’s expertise is multifaceted. He excels in creating strong relationships with major grocery chains and shippers, ensuring white-glove service that prioritizes quality over cost. His commitment to excellence extends to the carrier partners ATS collaborates with, emphasizing value and reliability over mere affordability. Colby's intimate knowledge of every operational detail, from loading trucks to final deliveries, sets him apart in an industry often dominated by those without direct field experience.

In addition to his professional acumen, Colby’s personal story adds depth to his authority. Having navigated every role within the logistics chain, from local pickups to night dispatch, he possesses a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and demands at each stage. This hands-on approach ensures that ATS’s service remains unparalleled, even in a rapidly changing market.

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About this episode

In Episode 21 of The Miles and Mentors Podcast, Alex Powers sits down withColby Varley, Vice President and Principal at Advanced Transportation Services, Inc. (ATS). Colby shares his remarkable journey in the perishable freight transportation industry, from hands-on experience behind the wheel to leading his company as an industry innovator.

Discover how Colby’s early exposure to agriculture and logistics shaped his career and fueled his passion for creating sustainable, value-driven freight solutions. This episode is packed with practical advice for those looking to grow in the logistics sector, emphasizing relationship-building, continuous learning, and operational excellence.

Episode Highlights

00:00:39 – Introducing Colby Varley: From driver to Vice President

00:03:09 – The evolution of produce logistics and its impact

00:06:00 – The importance of relationships in the perishable freight niche

00:10:11 – Lessons learned through hands-on industry experience

00:16:14 – Advice for transitioning to owner-operator or fleet owner

00:22:15 – Key insights on patience and sustainable business growth

00:29:20 – The value of being bilingual in logistics

00:36:19 – Networking and staying fluid in professional growth

About Our Guest Colby Varley is a seasoned logistics professional with 14 years of experience in the perishable freight industry. As Vice President and Principal at ATS, he combines hands-on knowledge with strategic leadership to drive innovation and operational excellence. Colby is a strong advocate for continuous learning and relationship-building, key elements of his approach to business success.

Links to Learn More

Website: https://www.AdvancedTransportationServices.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/AdvancedTransportationServices

Discover More About The Miles and Mentors Podcast Stay connected with The Miles and Mentors Podcast for real-life advice and insights from industry professionals who have “put in the miles” and are here to mentor you.

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Want to Be Featured? Are you a leader in the logistics industry with a story to share? Or are you interested in sponsoring an episode of The Miles and Mentors Podcast? Reach out to us at milesandmentors@gmail.com

Guest: Colby Varley