International parcel company Venipak – celebrating its 20th anniversary this year – has appointed a new CEO. After eight years at the helm, Justas Šablinskas has been succeeded by Andrius Ladauskas, who brings extensive leadership experience from some of Lithuania’s largest companies.
“My journey at Venipak began as CFO, after which I took on the management of the Group’s companies in Lithuania and abroad. I’m proud of the many milestones we’ve achieved together over the years – from building an international team of over 1,000 people and expanding into new markets to launching new business lines before the pandemic that permanently transformed the e-commerce landscape. We’ve shown great flexibility in adapting to changing consumer habits and continued to grow in an increasingly competitive market. Naturally, after nearly ten years with the same company, I’ve decided it’s time to step down. I’m grateful to the team for all we have accomplished and created together during this time, and I have no doubt that this change marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter,” says J. Šablinskas.
His primary goal at the moment is to facilitate the transfer of responsibilities and onboard the new CEO. This leadership change occurs during the busiest period for the logistics sector when it’s essential to not only ensure the continuity and smooth operation of existing processes but also outline a long-term vision. Šablinskas’ next steps are to focus on developing family businesses in the beauty services and e-commerce sectors, becoming a board member as well as providing financial, business acquisition and consulting advice.
Venipak’s new CEO, Andrius Ladauskas, has gained leadership experience in some of Lithuania’s largest companies, including Lithuanian Railways and Vilniaus Prekyba. He also headed the Barbora online shop, which manages e-stores in the Baltic region, where he acquired valuable practical experience and worked his way up to the position of chief executive.
“My experience is truly multifaceted. I’ve had the opportunity to build a startup from the ground up, manage a team of a thousand people, and serve in both CFO and CEO roles. In today’s market, the ability to quickly pivot while maintaining a clear strategic direction is a significant advantage. I view joining Venipak as a significant personal milestone, and I carry a strong sense of responsibility to introduce fresh perspectives and ideas. I believe these attributes will help make Venipak not only a leading company in the Baltic States but also a coveted employer and business partner,” says Ladauskas.
Ladauskas is further refining his management and leadership skills through the ISM Executive Programme, which he describes as highly concentrated and tailored to the role of an executive.
“Teamwork, collaboration and a company culture with clear boundaries on what’s acceptable and what isn’t are essential in any organisation. Venipak’s internal culture is exceptionally strong, and the company possesses significant potential for further growth. I will work diligently to ensure the company’s sustainable growth while not only maintaining but also building on the organisation’s existing internal culture,” says Ladauskas.
More changes in the leadership team
The change of CEO is not the only alteration in the leadership team, which has also welcomed two highly experienced heads of sales and a new Chief Operating Officer (COO).
Jurgita Karčiauskaitė, who brings nearly two decades of experience in the telecommunications and IT sectors, has been appointed head of sales for Venipak’s Baltic States operations, effective at the end of September. The Lithuanian sales team is now led by Greta Aukštakojienė, who brings eleven years of experience to the role. Both professionals previously worked at Telia Lietuva.
Sabina Bačiulienė, who joined the company’s leadership team a year ago, now has assumed the role of COO. She is responsible for all operations in the Baltic States, overseeing efficiency and strategic initiatives while streamlining business processes and optimising logistics operations.
“The Group’s leadership structure and team are now finalised and poised to move forward at full speed, united by a common vision and shared goals. I find the greatest value in collaborative projects that engage and unite various parts of the organisation. I believe that, by collaborating with a refreshed team of seasoned professionals, we can achieve many ambitious goals and drive the market forward,” says Ladauskas.
