For Julio Bellota, Vice President - Commercial - Logistics for DP World in Southeast Asia, leadership is about adapting, innovating, and connecting with people across cultures and industries. With the logistics sector undergoing rapid transformation, he believes that leaders must be strategic, agile, and open to diverse perspectives—qualities that were deeply reinforced during his Executive Master of Business Administration (EMBA) journey at SMU.
“The SMU EMBA programme is unique in Singapore, with a distinct Asia-to-global approach,” Julio shares. “I was at a fast-evolving phase in my career and needed new perspectives and connections to think differently and push myself beyond my comfort zone.”
Navigating complexity in global logistics
At DP World, Julio plays a key role in creating end-to-end logistics solutions across Southeast Asia, a region experiencing some of the fastest economic growth worldwide. “Southeast Asia is made up of 12 countries, each with different cultures, languages, and logistics requirements,” he explains. “The biggest challenge—but also the biggest opportunity—is building capabilities and scaling growth faster than the competition across such a diverse geography.”
Since taking on his role, Julio has led rapid expansion efforts, building connectivity and developing new solutions for key cargo owners. “We’ve grown on a fast track, starting the commercial organisation and end-to-end solutions from scratch,” he says. “Opening new doors in a multicultural, highly competitive environment has been one of the most exciting challenges of my career.”
How SMU shaped Julio’s leadership and strategic thinking
Leading growth in a high-pressure, fast-moving sector requires both strategic vision and adaptability—two skills Julio honed during his SMU EMBA experience.
“The case study methodology, combined with the high-calibre C-suite peers in my cohort, gave me the ability to create value and drive fast growth strategies across different geographies,” he said. “The programme really pushed me to develop my creativity and strategic thinking approach, which has been extremely valuable in my role.”
Beyond the coursework, Julio found immense value in the diversity of perspectives within his class. “Jumping out of my comfort zone, working with people from different backgrounds, industries, and experiences—this is what helped me grow the most. I learned to be more humble, to listen, and to find common ground across different leadership styles.”
Key trends shaping the future of global logistics
Julio believes that the logistics industry is undergoing a fundamental transformation, with three key trends shaping its future:
- Digitalisation of the supply chain – “Technology is playing a key role in providing greater control, visibility, and communication with stakeholders at both origin and destination.”
- Smart use of assets – “The ability to leverage infrastructure efficiently and provide end-to-end solutions is becoming a major differentiator.”
- Customer-driven innovation – “Close engagement with customers across geographies is essential to understand their pain points and develop solutions tailored to a rapidly shifting global economy.”
For leaders in logistics, cultural intelligence and adaptability are becoming just as important as business acumen. “My advice? Be adaptable, build the best team under you, and don’t be afraid to work with people who might be better than you in certain areas!”
Overcoming leadership challenges with insights from SMU
Reflecting on his career, Julio highlights the COVID-19 pandemic as one of his toughest leadership challenges. “Managing teams virtually across Asia-Pacific while keeping them engaged and motivated was incredibly difficult,” he recalls. “The SMU EMBA helped me challenge myself, adapt to different perspectives, and stay connected with my teams—even in the most difficult times.”
The SMU EMBA: A platform for future leaders
Julio believes that business schools like SMU play a critical role in developing the next generation of leaders, especially in industries undergoing rapid transformation. “The EMBA’s cultural, creative, and strategic approach helps leaders think differently and create real value. The diversity of backgrounds in the programme forces you to listen, adapt, and build solutions in a fast-changing environment.”
One of his most memorable moments from SMU was the experience of learning alongside seasoned C-suite executives, particularly during the pandemic. “It pushed me to be bold, strategic, and empathetic—not just as a leader, but as a person.” His biggest takeaway? “Never lose your essence as a leader.”
A lifelong journey of learning and leadership
Julio’s experience at SMU continues to shape the way he leads at DP World, helping him navigate challenges, build strong teams, and drive strategic growth in one of the world’s most competitive industries.
For professionals considering the SMU EMBA, Julio has one piece of advice: “Be ready to step out of your comfort zone. If you’re looking for a programme that challenges you, expands your thinking, and prepares you for the next level in your career, this is the one to choose.”