Manica Group Namibia has appointed Patrick Kohlstaedt as its new Director of Operations.
According to the logistics company, Kohlstaedt brings a wealth of expertise, having amassed 24 years of experience in external logistics, including 20 years in Namibia and an impressive 17-year tenure with Manica.
Kohlstaedt holds a Diplom Wirtschaftsingenieur Logistics, equivalent to an MSc in Industrial Engineering, earned in 2000 from Fachhochschule Lippe in Germany.
“In his new capacity, Kohlstaedt aims to enhance Manica Group Namibia’s operational efficiency and fortify its standing as a leader in the logistics industry. His track record and passion for innovation position him as a dynamic force in driving the company’s growth,” the company said.
“His career achievements are a testament to his ability to drive group efficiency and find agile logistics solutions. Some of these include several high-impact projects in Namibia, such as oversight of the Caprivi Link Interconnector Powerline project, including logistics for substations and insulators; managing logistics for the Ohorongo Cement Plant construction project and the Tsumeb Smelter Gas Cleaning Plant project logistics, as well as leading onshore logistics for multiple offshore exploration drilling projects from 2007 to 2024.”
Beyond project execution, Manica said Kohlstaedt has been instrumental in shaping the Namibian logistics sector.
“As a founding member of the Namibia Logistics Association (NLA) since 2009, he has championed industry development and expansion. His work as a founding consultant and director of the Commercial Advancement Training Scheme (CATS) between 2007 and 2019 contributed to vocational dual training in Namibia. Additionally, his support for the Walvis Bay Corridor Group from 2004 to 2007 helped establish critical transport corridors in collaboration with industry stakeholders.”
Commenting on his appointment, Kohlstaedt said he looks forward to contributing to the company’s success and advancing the logistics industry in Namibia.
“Manica’s commitment to excellence aligns perfectly with my approach to finding efficiencies and delivering value,” he said.
