Every week, CargoForwarder Global highlights a different part of the air cargo industry in its ‘Spotlight On…’ series, through the eyes of someone working there. Digitalization is such a large factor for the air cargo industry’s success now and in the future, and yet, because it is so fragmented both in function and development, digital transition has been slow. That is why, not too long ago, one group of stakeholders came together to try to smooth the way to a more unified approach to data and processes through open source solutions, offering a more level playing field for each company’s digital evolution. The Open Logistics Foundation (OLF) was born. (CFG reported: https://cargoforwarder.eu/2025/06/15/olf-a-fair-approach-to-logistics-digitalization/) This week, Carina Tüllmann (CT), Chief Commercial Officer of the Open Logistics Foundation, talks about her role, experiences and views.
CFG: What is your current function and company? And what are your responsibilities?
CT: I’m currently the Chief Commercial Officer (CCO) of the Open Logistics Foundation (OLF). In this role, I’m responsible for communication and community management, business development, and human resources development.
My role involves intensifying the dialogue with member companies and the open source community, expanding our international networks, and integrating new partners, all with the aim of further advancing open source solutions across company boundaries.
CFG: What does a normal day look like for you?
CT: There is no such thing as a typical day. My tasks are closely linked to the current focus of the OLF, its members and our community. Sometimes the focus is on planning our strategic development; at other times, it is on preparing events, publications, panels, connecting current & scouting new partners and so on. But that is exactly what I value so much about this work. It’s the diversity and the opportunity to constantly gain new experiences.
CFG: How long have you been in the air cargo industry, and what brought you to it?
CT: I have been involved in the logistics / supply chain / innovation space for quite a while. Before joining OLF, I spent over ten years working with Fraunhofer IML and other innovation / digital hub organizations, focusing on fostering research and innovation, communicating new solutions, and connecting people.
My strong belief in collaboration, open solutions, and the fact that many of the biggest challenges in logistics cannot be solved in isolation is what brought me here. My desire to combine my experience in marketing, communication and economics with the impact of digital and open source tools led me to work with organizations focused on open standards, such as OLF.
CFG: What do you enjoy most about your job?
CT: The combination of technical, social, legal and organizational challenges—it’s a field where I can use both strategic thinking and people skills, connect different kinds of stakeholders, and see the impact of what we build. The opportunity to help shape the future of logistics in a more sustainable, efficient, and fair way – through open source standards, open community participation, and shared innovation motivates me greatly.
As a committed European, I am truly delighted that we are making a decisive contribution to Europe’s competitiveness, resilience, and position as a strong logistics hub through the Open Logistics Foundation.
CFG: Where do you see the greatest challenges in our industry?
CT: When it comes to standardization, moving from proof‑of‑concept to widespread use in much shorter times, ensuring usability, reliability, and support for varied use cases and company sizes.
CFG: What advice would you give to people looking to get into the air cargo industry?
CT: Develop strong communication, stakeholder management, negotiation, and change management skills. You’ll often need to bring different parties together and navigate varying interests.
CFG: If the air cargo industry were a film/book, what would its title be?
CT: “Unlocked: The Power of Sharing in Logistics”Many thanks, Carina!
If you would like to share your personal air cargo story with our CargoForwarder Global readers, feel free to send your answers to the above questions to cargoforwarderglobal@kopfpilot.at We look forward to shining a spotlight on your job area, views, and experiences.
