Charles Daniels is a seasoned logistics and supply chain executive with over 45 years of experience in international trade, freight forwarding, and operational leadership. With deep industry knowledge spanning customs regulations, international logistics, and trade compliance, Charles has led high-performing teams and created strategic value across global operations. His career is defined by a strong commitment to excellence, a passion for efficiency, and an innate ability to navigate complex, multinational environments.

Most recently, Charles served as Vice President of Vendor Relations & Supply Chain at Fortessa Tableware Solutions, LLC for nearly 22 years. During his tenure, he played an instrumental role in transforming Fortessa into a globally recognized designer and marketer of tableware, serving both the commercial foodservice and consumer sectors. He led supply chain operations with precision and vision, building vendor partnerships across continents, streamlining international logistics, and supporting innovative product development cycles.

Charles’s expertise lies in managing the intricacies of global logistics. He has extensive experience in the import/export trade, freight management, customs compliance, and supply chain optimization. His understanding of international shipping regulations, especially related to C-TPAT, container logistics, and 3PL strategy, has consistently ensured regulatory adherence while driving operational cost savings. Charles brings a hands-on, yet strategic approach that blends leadership with executional excellence.

A unique aspect of Charles’s professional background is his international exposure. Traveling over 12 weeks annually, he has built trusted relationships and business acumen throughout Asia and Europe. His cultural fluency, along with proficiency in German, enables him to bridge global partnerships effectively and with sensitivity to local nuances. His global travel has sharpened his understanding of international markets and broadened his strategic perspective in sourcing, compliance, and vendor collaboration.

Throughout his career, Charles has held leadership roles that reflect not only operational acumen but also a commitment to service. He has chaired several boards, including a local chamber of commerce, the National Association of Foreign-Trade Zones (NAFTZ) board, and a local Rotary board. These leadership roles reflect his dedication to community, service, and mentorship—aligning with his personal motto: “Service of Both Self.” Charles is driven not only by success in business but also by creating value for others around him.

While Charles has not pursued public speaking as a core activity, he has contributed meaningfully in various industry discussions and events. His insights into freight logistics, compliance strategy, and vendor negotiations have earned him informal recognition as a trusted advisor among peers and colleagues. Though not published in journals, his experience speaks volumes through the results he has consistently delivered across decades of evolving global trade conditions.

Charles’s educational foundation in international freight forwarding from Berufliches Schulzentrum Alois Senefelder in Munich, combined with formative years at the Munich International School, provided a robust starting point for his international career. These institutions instilled in him the discipline, precision, and cultural awareness necessary to thrive in the fast-paced world of logistics and global trade.

Now at a pivotal point in his career, Charles is actively seeking board service opportunities where his vast expertise can be leveraged to support strategic direction, operational oversight, and global supply chain development. He is particularly interested in companies with $200 million or less in revenue—organizations where his insights and leadership can have a profound and measurable impact. His approach is highly collaborative, thoughtful, and rooted in decades of direct experience and integrity.

Beyond his professional contributions, Charles is an outdoorsman at heart. He finds joy in nature, hunting, hiking, and woodturning—passions that reflect his craftsmanship, patience, and ability to see beauty and purpose in the details. This balance of analytical precision and creative expression adds to his well-rounded character and leadership style.

Charles Daniels is not just a logistics executive—he is a global thinker, a strategic partner, and a service-driven leader with a rare blend of humility and expertise. His extensive knowledge, international network, and operational foresight make him a strong candidate for boards looking to navigate the complexities of global supply chains and cross-border growth.

Character:
Charles Daniels is a values-driven leader who leads with humility, integrity, and a deep commitment to service. His long-standing involvement in community boards and industry associations reflects his dedication to contributing beyond business.

Knowledge:
With over 45 years of experience in international logistics, Charles brings deep expertise in supply chain management, customs compliance, freight forwarding, and vendor relations. His real-world knowledge spans across continents and industries, giving him a well-rounded perspective in global operations.

Strategic:
Charles has a proven ability to develop and execute logistics strategies that support long-term business growth and operational efficiency. His leadership consistently aligns tactical execution with broader organizational goals, especially in complex, multinational environments.

Communication:
Fluent in English and German, Charles is an effective cross-cultural communicator who builds trust with global partners and internal teams alike. His collaborative style ensures alignment across departments and borders, driving cohesive action and shared success.