Ole joined the Hellmann team in the U.S. in early 2023. After training as a freight forwarding agent and studying logistics in Bremen and Hamburg, he gained experience in Asia-Europe traffic and always had the goal of working abroad, a wish shaped by the years he spent in Dubai as a child.
Through our international program, Ole moved to Los Angeles with his family and now works as Branch Manager in the Los Angeles office.

Hello Ole, what made you decide to move to Los Angeles?

Ole Heiken: Before moving from our Hamburg office to Los Angeles, I had already gained management experience at other logistics companies. When I joined Hellmann, I did so with the goal of taking on responsibility abroad in the long term. I had wanted to go abroad for a long time, and I am very grateful that this opportunity worked out. 

This desire was deeply rooted in me, probably also because I lived with my family in Dubai for seven years as a child, where logistics already played a major role in our lives.

Did you find it easy to integrate into your new working environment and the new country?

Ole Heiken: Professionally, it went very smoothly. I was warmly welcomed into the team and was able to get familiar with my tasks quickly. That made it easier for me to settle in and take on responsibility right away.

On a personal level, the process took longer and was more challenging. Moving to a new country with a small child, far away from family, friends, and familiar structures, was a big change that required a lot of strength from us as a family. It took more than a year until we truly felt settled, established a social circle, and found a new routine. Looking back, it was a formative and enriching experience that strengthened us as a family.

What do you miss most about home?

Ole Heiken: Especially around Christmas, I miss the festive atmosphere and the Christmas markets in Germany. And when it comes to food, good brown bread or a fresh fish roll are hard to find here. Even though there are good bakeries, it’s just not the same. But above all, I miss the closeness to friends and family. You can’t just drop by spontaneously or spend time together when you live this far away.

What do you like most about living in LA?

Ole Heiken: I really appreciate the Californian way of life. People here are relaxed, friendly, and very tolerant. The multicultural environment in Southern California is incredibly enriching. I also love the variety of nature. Within two hours you can be in the desert, in the mountains, or at the beach. My family and I enjoy being outdoors, whether camping, surfing, or hiking.

What does a perfect day off in LA look like for you?

Ole Heiken: A perfect day off starts with a visit to Laguna Beach, a small, beautiful town just fifteen minutes away. We enjoy the sun, visit the weekly market, and have breakfast there. Then we head to the beach, where our child can play in the playground while we have coffee and browse the local stores. I really value the small, individual shops there.

Thank you for sharing your experience with us! Is there anything else you would like to add?

Ole Heiken: Yes, I would encourage anyone who is considering going abroad to go for it. There is never a perfect time, but it’s always worth it, both professionally and personally. You grow with challenges and learn a lot about yourself and other cultures. Working with people from different backgrounds is incredibly enriching and exciting. Take the opportunities that come your way and don’t let doubts hold you back.

Thanks a lot for sharing your story with us, Ole! 

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