Thomas Pan has been promoted to Managing Director, North Asia, for Menlo Worldwide Logistics (China) and Leong Choong Cheng has simultaneously been appointed Deputy Managing Director, said Global Chief Operating Officer Gary Kowalski, who made the announcement in Shanghai.

'The appointments of Thomas and Leong strengthen the Menlo team as we continue to invest in people and processes in China,' said Kowalski. Menlo began expanding in China in 2007, in response to demand from overseas clients with businesses in China that wanted Menlo's proven services and support in this market. 'We are continuing to build our investment in China, which is a strategic component for the global Menlo enterprise.'

The China operations of the US$1.6 billion international logistics company have made significant progress over the past year, according to VP-International John Beckett, to whom both Pan and Leong will report. Menlo China has introduced LEAN practices and streamlined operations during the last 12 months, positioning the company as the pre-eminent provider in China for supply chain services including transportation management, warehousing and consulting services. And the company's progress has been received favorably in the market: 'Our China revenue increased 23% in 2011, the new prospect pipeline grew 70% last year, and the new business revenue increased four-fold,' Beckett said.

The momentum has continued into 2012, with additional growth in new prospects and business wins, as well as key new appointments in security and operations further boosting Menlo China's capabilities. Yin Ping Wang was appointed Regional Security Manager for North Asia/Greater China, and Lucia Fu was named Senior Operations Manager, North Asia. 'We are delighted to have both of these industry professionals on board,' said Thomas Pan. 'Our rapid growth in China has caused us to take a more proactive stance with security risk management. Y.P. Wang will identify risk and minimize loss for the North Asia operation through front-end security risk management programs, supporting the leadership, management and our business objectives. Lucia, meanwhile, will advance our growth through service, LEAN and operations excellence. Lucia and Y.P. strengthen an already very capable team,' said Pan.

'We will continue to invest in Menlo China ' in people, in processes, and in resources that will enable the business to grow smoothly and provide superior value for our customers,' said COO Kowalski. 'China remains of key strategic importance to Menlo and our long-term global growth plans.'