Driving Digital Transformation in Logistics: From NSYSU to Leadership in the U.S.

In today’s rapidly evolving logistics landscape, the ability to integrate technology with strategic oversight is essential for success. One of our distinguished IBMBA alumni, Julio Leon, currently serving as the Manager of Digital Implementation & Contract Management at a Charlotte-based company in North Carolina, exemplifies how international education and diverse professional experience can pave the way to impactful leadership. He works for Maersk, an international logistics company with headquarters in Denmark and offices around the world. With a career that began in logistics in 2014 and a transition into digital transformation in recent years, his journey reflects resilience, adaptability, and a global outlook shaped at National Sun Yat-sen University.

His current role revolves around leading digital transformation initiatives and ensuring seamless contract lifecycle management. This means coordinating with cross-functional teams to implement new tools, optimizing workflows, and overseeing compliance with contractual obligations. A typical day involves reviewing project timelines, aligning stakeholders on digital strategies, and troubleshooting challenges along the way. He also collaborates closely with legal and procurement teams to ensure contracts are drafted, negotiated, and executed according to company policies. In a dynamic, collaborative environment with strong emphasis on innovation, he thrives on balancing technical execution with strategic leadership.

Reflecting on his two years in the IBMBA program at NSYSU, he emphasizes how foundational it was for his career. “The program’s international scope and practical approach gave me a strong grasp of global business dynamics, especially in logistics and digital transformation.” Courses like Consulting Methods and Practices, with its hands-on projects and company visits in Japan, provided invaluable real-world exposure. Mentorship from professors such as Dr. Lin Teh-Chan deepened his understanding of Chinese culture and business, while the multicultural environment taught him to collaborate across cultures—skills he applies daily. Living in Kaohsiung, Asia’s gateway to trade, further gave his firsthand insight into global supply chains and strengthened his professional agility.

His job search after graduation combined persistence, networking, and serendipity. Returning to the logistics industry with a broader perspective, he spent months applying for positions aligned with his international business background. A turning point came when he attended a virtual industry webinar; following up on LinkedIn led to an interview opportunity. “Showing up and engaging can open doors,” he notes. Platforms like LinkedIn, Indeed, and Glassdoor were essential in navigating the competitive U.S. market, while tools like Handshake and WayUp proved useful for younger graduates. He highlights the importance of customizing applications, staying proactive, and following up—small actions that ultimately made a big difference.

His prior logistics experience at Hyundai Merchant Marine gave him a solid foundation in international trade, but NSYSU expanded his skillset toward strategy and leadership. The program taught him to move beyond operational tasks, developing data-driven decisionmaking abilities and cross-cultural collaboration skills. Professors and mentors played a vital role in guiding his transformation toward managerial and digital-focused roles, instilling confidence to navigate complex challenges.

Navigating the U.S. job market as an international graduate was not without hurdles. Beyond adapting to a highly competitive environment, he had to navigate the visa process and find companies open to hiring global talent. Yet he sees immense opportunity for international students who are adaptable, proactive, and willing to network. Cities such as Charlotte, New York, Atlanta, and Chicago all serve as major logistics hubs with strong career prospects in supply chain and digital transformation.

He credits networking and preparation as the cornerstones of his career advancement. During interviews, he relied on the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to communicate effectively and tailored his answers to align with company values and mission. Thorough research, thoughtful questions, and showcasing his international experience allowed him to stand out. His advice is clear: “Be proactive, personalize your approach, and never underestimate the power of follow-up and preparation.”

Beyond academics and career, he also advocates for Taiwan as a study destination. “Pursuing a master’s degree in Taiwan offers a unique blend of academic excellence and cultural immersion.” Affordable living, English-taught programs, and the island’s strategic location in Asia provide unique advantages for international students. Taiwan’s safe environment, welcoming community, and vibrant culture make it an attractive place for global talents seeking both personal and professional growth.

As his story illustrates, the path from NSYSU to a leadership role in digital transformation demonstrates the power of combining global education with persistence and adaptability. From operational beginnings in logistics to overseeing digital strategies in the U.S., his journey is a testament to the value of cross-cultural learning and continuous professional growth. His message to current and future IBMBA students is both simple and powerful: “Confidence and preparation open doors—take every opportunity to show up, engage, and grow.”

Written by Sam. IBMBA Programs Student Association Vice President.