Shaping partnerships for smarter logistics – Meet Rob Tonissen, our Head of Supply

When it comes to global logistics, data is only as good as the partnerships behind it. As Head of Supply at Routescanner, Rob builds and nurtures the relationships that power the platform’s ecosystem. Connecting carriers, operators, ports and terminals across the world.

With nearly a decade of experience at CMA CGM, Rob made the move to Routescanner over three years ago. "I was looking for a company that blended logistics with tech," he explains. “The promise of transparency, efficiency, and sustainability in container transport immediately appealed to me. And Routescanner offered exactly that, plus the energy of a startup.”

From carrier-side to platform-side

At CMA CGM, Rob worked in various roles, including e-commerce and value-added services. But it was the fast-evolving world of digital logistics that really sparked his interest. “The tech side of the industry had always lagged behind a bit. I wanted to be part of the digitalization happening in the shipping industry.”

That change began at Routescanner, where Rob’s first challenge was to expand the platform’s carrier network. “Back then, we were still very Europe-focused,” he says. “Together with the team, we expanded our supply-side partnerships and started building towards a truly global network.”

Building an ecosystem that drives impact

Rob now leads a small but highly focused supply team that works across modalities and regions. From onboarding new inland operators to partnering with ports worldwide, his focus is on improving coverage and data quality for users, while making sure partners feel genuinely heard and valued.

“What sets us apart,” Rob explains, “is that we include not just the major carriers, but also the smaller rail and barge operators. That visibility and neutrality create real transparency in a fragmented industry.

Today, Routescanner collaborates with more than 280 operators worldwide. And it’s not just about showcasing their schedules. We also develop solutions that bring real value to our partners. Ports play a key role in this ecosystem as well. By working closely with them, we extend our coverage and support over 20 ports that use our intelligence to visualize their connectivity networks.”

A typical week involves much more than relationship management. Rob and his team also collaborate closely with data, demand, and product teams to ensure the platform continues to evolve in line with market needs. “We’re constantly prioritizing based on user feedback,” he says. “It’s all about adding value in the right places.”

A global mindset with local impact

One of Rob’s key ambitions is to broaden Routescanner’s footprint and deepen its impact among large logistics players. “We’re already seeing increasing usage from major companies,” he says. “Now, the ambition is to make that value more visible, highlighting how Routescanner contributes to better choices, efficiency, sustainability, and modal shift.”

He sees Routescanner as a catalyst: “We help logistics teams discover what’s possible. Often, a more sustainable route turns out to be faster or more cost-effective too.”

Outside the office

Outside of work, Rob’s world revolves around his young family, with two kids under five and a shared love of travel. “It’s a bit more challenging with little ones,” he admits, “but I still try to discover new places whenever I can. It broadens your view and I want that for them, too.”