Elmer Francisco U. Sarmiento, CEO of Royal Cargo, has faced significant professional hurdles, such as a major labor strike in 1990 that caused disruptions and a temporary downturn in investments. Despite these setbacks, Sarmiento embraces failures as critical learning experiences. He views them as stepping stones to success, ultimately helping him grow stronger and wiser. His resilience has been key to his leadership journey and the company’s ongoing success.
Leadership Philosophy
Sarmiento’s leadership style is rooted in collaboration, integrity, and humility. He is known for being a participative leader, always seeking input and feedback from his team. Unlike authoritarian leaders, he engages with his employees, listens to their concerns, and makes decisions based on collective input. By leading with empathy, he creates a work environment where everyone’s opinion is valued. His emphasis on leading by example and maintaining a positive, responsible attitude has shaped his reputation as a respected leader in the industry.
Commitment to CSR
Royal Cargo, under Sarmiento’s leadership, is dedicated to contributing positively to society through various corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives. The company supports NGOs, schools, and disaster relief efforts by offering its equipment and expertise. For example, Royal Cargo provides its services free of charge to the Red Cross to help evacuate people in disaster-stricken areas. Additionally, the company has donated a fire truck, “Henry,” to the city of Paranaque, demonstrating their ongoing commitment to social impact.
Recognition and Awards
Sarmiento’s exemplary leadership has earned him significant recognition. In 2017, he was honored with the Smart Enterprise Global Filipino Executive of the Year award at the Asia CEO Awards. His work has also contributed to the success of Royal Cargo, which has received multiple accolades over the years, including the Philippines Project Logistics Service Provider of the Year 2015 award from Frost & Sullivan. These recognitions underscore Sarmiento’s ability to guide Royal Cargo to new heights, fostering a culture of excellence and success.
Leadership Style and Impact
Sarmiento’s leadership approach is not only about achieving business goals but also about creating a positive and inclusive culture within the organization. His leadership style is focused on respect, engagement, and fostering an environment where people feel valued. He believes that a true leader should be someone who is respected by others, leads by example, and maintains a positive attitude in all situations. Sarmiento’s focus on people-centric leadership has resulted in a strong, motivated team, helping Royal Cargo stand out as an industry leader.
