20 years in logistics — and founding my own company as the next natural step
My name is Yaroslav Rybalko, and today I am — an entrepreneur in logistics and the owner of PAX Logistic. I came to running my own business not through a sudden career change, but by following a steady professional path. I entered logistics in 2006 as a student intern at a large international company that systematically trained and developed logistics professionals. There, I gained a solid understanding of the market, operational processes, sales, and customer service. 20 years have passed since then, and that experience became the foundation for launching my own business.
When I started the company, I already had a good understanding of how sales work in logistics, what clients are really buying, and at which stages deals are most often lost. At a certain point, working as an employee no longer gave me the sense of freedom on the scale I needed. Entrepreneurship, despite constant doubts, great responsibility, and a chronic lack of resources, gave me the most important thing — the ability to make decisions independently and build a business according to my own vision.
I believe the most important thing for a beginning entrepreneur — is learning to live with their fears. Entrepreneurs are constantly in doubt: from small operational decisions to strategic questions such as opening a new office or entering another market. This is a normal part of the process, and you have to get used to it. The doubts do not go away, but over time you learn not to let them drive your decisions.
Another important lesson — is to be prepared for financial instability. As an employee, you get used to predictability: a steady salary, clear expense planning, and savings. In business, the logic is different: most resources are continually reinvested in development, scaling, new areas, and attracting partners. There is almost never enough money, and you have to adapt to that, too. This process was not easy for me, but it taught me to take a more strategic view of money, risks, and growth.
At the same time, I believe entrepreneurship — is not a universal formula for success, but a personal choice. I know many outstanding professionals who have worked at large companies for decades, serve on executive boards, earn high incomes, and have successful careers. That is also a valid and worthy path. But for me, entrepreneurship first and foremost means freedom — freedom of choice, decision-making, and responsibility for the outcome.
Right now, all my focus is on developing my logistics business. I am not launching any parallel projects for now because I want to focus fully on building a strong company. Over the next five years, I see the business growing through entry into European and Asian markets and the opening of international offices. Another ambition is to develop our own freight fleet, as well as expand financing and procurement services for clients. My vision is for the company to be not just a carrier, but a comprehensive business partner.
In my personal life, my main priority — is my family. I am the father of three children, and that is a distinct source of motivation and responsibility. Sometimes it feels like I need not just a few extra hours, but an extra day each week, to accomplish everything I have planned while also being fully involved in my family’s life.
As for Ukraine’s future, I am optimistic. I am convinced that we have already endured and proven our strength. Ahead lies — a period of major recovery and development. Our prospects are strong if we maintain the trust of our international partners, believe in ourselves, and do not lose the capital we have built up over these years — not only financial capital, but also human, reputational, and moral capital.
I can call myself a happy person. I am satisfied with my life, have interesting work that I love, and a wonderful family. For me, happiness — is when what you do every day completely aligns with what you truly love.
Twenty years of experience — and my own business as a logical continuation
How did the business idea come about?
My journey in logistics began in 2006, when I joined a large international company as a student intern. The company actively trained young specialists and developed them into professional logistics experts. That is where I gained fundamental experience and realized that I wanted to grow in this field.
I have been in logistics for 20 years. Last October marked exactly two decades since I started my career. Starting my own business was a natural continuation of my career as an employee and the next logical step.
Responsibility for sales and the ability to speak the client’s language
What key skills helped you launch your business?
The most important skill was taking responsibility for sales. In my work, this is a key competency. It also helps a great deal to be able to connect with people, understand their needs, identify what they are looking for, and offer solutions that are relevant right now.
Staff shortages at the outset — the toughest challenge for a young business
What are the 3 most difficult challenges you overcame in the first years?
The biggest challenge — is the shortage of staff. Finding talented people, helping them adapt, and building a team — is probably the most difficult task for a business in its early stages.
The company is one year old — focusing on the fundamentals, not crises
What crises has your business faced, and how did you overcome them?
My company is only one year old, so we have not faced any major crises yet. For now, the main focus — is getting the processes right and building a solid foundation for future growth.
Expanding into procurement made us a comprehensive partner, not just a carrier
Which decisions proved most effective for the company’s growth?
One of our best decisions was expanding into procurement. We began developing not only transportation services, but also the procurement of goods for clients. This allowed us to increase the value of our offering and become a more comprehensive partner.
Underestimating my own potential — the costliest mistake at the outset
Which of your mistakes do you now consider the most valuable experience?
The most valuable mistake — was underestimating my own abilities and capabilities. With experience comes the realization that our potential is often much greater than we think at the outset.
