The past month marked an important milestone for ACE Logistics, as Kārlis Kasparāns, Managing Director of ACE Logistics Latvia, celebrated his 1500th day at this position. To commemorate this achievement, we would like to introduce Kārlis to our readers, by asking him some questions about his professional and private life.
Tell us a little bit about yourself – what has your journey been like so far, and how would you describe yourself as a person?
My journey so far has been dynamic, versatile, and full of challenges. It all began back in school, when I spent summers working at the port with friends, loading and unloading sea containers — my first exposure to the world of logistics.
At the same time, I was actively involved in cycling and had the honor of representing Latvia at the European Championships.
My academic path wasn’t straightforward — I was expelled three times, but in the end, I graduated from the BA School of Business and Finance. I’ve been an entrepreneur and explored different fields, but for the past 10 years I have fully dedicated myself to logistics.
My varied life experiences and professional sports background have shaped me for who I am: goal-oriented, disciplined, and able to maintain a clear focus, even under pressure.
How did you end up at ACE and what convinced you to join the company?
In a way, my path to ACE was unexpected. Before that, I didn’t know much about the company, but the job interview with the owners completely changed my perspective. What convinced me were their values — transparency in business, honesty, and a genuinely human attitude, even when situations get tough. It was both a rational and emotional decision. I knew it would be a serious challenge, but also an opportunity to make a meaningful contribution to the company’s growth.
What feelings do you recall from your first days at the company?
Those first days were intense — filled with careful observation, active listening, and evaluating the overall situation. As the sole board member, I quickly felt the full weight of responsibility. The team was supportive, but also cautious — people were watching to see, what kind of leader I would be and what changes might come. At that time, I was consciously shaping myself as a leader — not just managing, but learning to be present, purposeful, and truly engaged with both people and processes.
What do you think have been the biggest changes ACE has experienced over these 1500 days?
Without a doubt — professional growth. The team has grown significantly not only in size, but also in capacity, competence, and sense of responsibility. We’ve moved into new, modern facilities, which have enabled us to expand our warehouse services and attract new clients.
We’ve also strengthened our collaboration with international partners, which has significantly broadened our opportunities and increased our visibility — ACE is becoming recognized as a reliable and trusted partner in the logistics industry.
Which of these years or moments do you consider the most challenging, and why?
Each year has brought its own challenges, so I wouldn’t single out just one. Global disruptions — the pandemic, geopolitical instability — have demanded quick responses, flexibility, and resilience from us.
In moments like these, you realize how crucial it is to maintain focus while being able to reorganize processes without panic. This readiness for the “unpredictable” has, in fact, become one of our greatest strengths.
What has been your most significant achievement as the company’s Managing Director?
In my view, the greatest achievement isn’t something that can be measured by a single achievement or project. It’s about staying human — I’ve managed to remain authentic. To me, leadership means taking responsibility without losing yourself in the process.
And of course, the most important part — the team. Their growth, their trust, and their accomplishments are what give me confidence that we’re on the right path.
How have you changed as a leader during this time?
I’ve become more mindful; I listen more and speak less. I’ve learned to appreciate silence and the moments before deciding. For me, leadership is about balancing a clear direction with the ability to adapt. Results do matter, but equally important are the people who make those results possible.
The role of leader challenges me to grow every single day — it’s a continuous journey of development.
What is your leadership philosophy today and has it changed over time?
I believe in simplicity. Leadership is not a formula — it’s an attitude. I listen, observe, and seek to understand. I want to create an environment where people can be themselves, take responsibility, and grow together with the organization.
Compared to the beginning, I’m much more open and flexible today, but my determination hasn’t faded. It’s just taken on more depth.
What inspires you and gives you strength to keep going with full dedication?
My inspiration doesn’t come from grand things. It comes from everyday choices: getting up, showing up, acting. It’s the victory over the inner voice that says, “I don’t want to.”
And, of course, the team — their energy, ideas, and commitment motivate me deeply. A great source of strength is also my family — they remind me how important it is to be present and to see life beyond work.
How do you balance work and personal life in such a dynamic role?
I’ll admit, finding balance isn’t easy. There’s no formula that always works. Sometimes it means skipping a meeting, other times it means waking up early to make time for family later in the day.
What matters to me is listening to myself, paying attention to the signals, and avoiding burnout.
Balance isn’t static — it’s a living process that we shape anew every day.
What do you do in your free time to restore energy and spark new ideas?
I like the idea that energy doesn’t need to be restored, it needs to be used meaningfully. In my free time, I choose simple but fulfilling activities: going for walks, working in the garage, staying active through sports. I’m a physical activity person; movement helps me stay balanced. And of course, time with my family — that’s where I find the deepest sense of purpose.
What would you like your team to know about you, something you may not have said yet?
Henry Ford once said: “Whether you think you can – you’re right, or you think you can’t – you’re right.” That’s a principle I carry with me every day.
I truly believe in what we’re doing. And if you — as a teammate — believe in it too, then we’re already moving in the right direction.
How do you see ACE’s future, over the next 1500 days and beyond?
It’s hard to predict the future, but I’m confident that ACE has a strong foundation, a dedicated team, and bold goals. We will continue to grow, both locally and internationally. Every day brings new opportunities, and we are ready to seize them.
My role will be to stay present, make meaningful decisions, and support the team as we move forward — together.
What advice would you give to those just starting their journey in leadership or in their career overall?
Start with yourself. Not with the title or external status, but with your ability to lead yourself. Your attitude, your habits, your choices are the things that define your direction.
It won’t be a simple journey. But if you see it as a chance to grow rather than something to avoid, then you’re already on the right path.
And maybe — just maybe — my story will inspire someone to believe in their own.
Congratulations to Kārlis for reaching this milestone! We wish him all the best in his journey!
ACE Logistics
