Efce van Heerden, Lecturer in Logistics and Supply Chain Management at Munster Technological University (MTU), has been confirmed as a member of the judging panel for the Irish Logistics & Transport Awards 2027, bringing an international industry and academic career spanning China, Africa, Europe, and the Middle East to the evaluation of excellence across Ireland's logistics and transport sector.

Van Heerden coordinates MTU's Logistics Associate Apprenticeship and its biopharmaceutical supply chain certificate, a remit that places him at the centre of workforce development and specialist supply chain education in Ireland.

Before joining MTU, he led the logistics degree programme at Bahrain Polytechnic, adding Middle Eastern academic leadership to a career that has moved between classrooms and commercial operations across several continents.

His industry record is equally distinctive. He helped launch the first Chinese sedan in Southern Africa, contributed to vehicle homologation, and received Geely's Best New International Distributor award, achievements that reflect hands-on experience in distribution, market entry, and international supply chain management.

A Fellow of the Higher Education Academy with a Master's in Operations Management from Dublin City University, he also contributes to faculty review work, audits, and advisory panels, bringing an evidence-led approach to assessing operational efficiency and logistics innovation.

The Irish Logistics & Transport Awards 2027 spans 33 categories recognising excellence across freight, transport, supply chain, warehousing, and sustainability in logistics, from Overall Logistics and Transport Excellence and End-to-End Logistics Provider of the Year to Green Supply Chain Excellence, Technology Provider of the Year, and Women in Logistics and Transport.

Van Heerden joins Judging Coordinator Declan Allen of TU Dublin, Seamus Kavanagh of the Irish International Freight Association, Michael O'Callaghan of IPICS, Patrick Daly of Alba Consulting, Dr Sourav Sengupta of Trinity College Dublin, Claire Percy of Dublin Port, Maurice Brady of TU Dublin, and Philip Tracey of Ace Express Freight.

The awards gala will take place on 4 March 2027 at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, Santry.

Visit the official Irish Logistics & Transport Awards website to submit your entry, explore category details, and meet the other judges, and subscribe to the newsletter for more updates.