Ben Gesing

Senior Director, Global Ground Operations Innovation @ DHL Express | Robotics & Automation | Computer Vision | Electrification

Cologne Bonn Region

About

I lead the global innovation and fleet agenda for DHL Express ground operations. My major focus is the deployment of new technologies and infrastructure that drive a step change in the safety, efficiency, and sustainability of our business. I'm a passionate people leader looking to bring out the best in individuals, teams, and colleagues. Over fourteen years of experience as a product and innovation leader in the technology and logistics industries, specializing in computer vision, robotics, artificial intelligence, IoT, and wearable tech. Ten years experience partnering with startups, system integrators, and technology enterprises to create innovative industry solutions and new ventures. Before joining DHL, I started my career as a product manager in the tech industry in the San Francisco Bay Area, developing new solutions in the telecommunications, wearables and IoT sectors. Beyond work, I'm a passionate traveler, aviation enthusiast, and proud dual citizen of the US and Germany.

Experience

  • DHL Express ()
    • Senior Director, Global Ground Operations Innovation
      Jan 2026 - Present · 7 mos

    • Director, Global Ground Operations Innovation
      Sep 2021 - Jan 2026 · 4 yrs 5 mos

      Lead advanced technology development and global deployment programs in DHL Express operations, focusing on robotics, computer vision AI, IoT, and wearable tech. Responsible for the global deployment of electric vehicles, charging infrastructure, and carbon-neutral building design standards to decarbonize DHL Express Ground Operations Organize and manage Global Network Operations Efficiency Platform (NOEP) Steering Group agenda and programs to drive efficiency and productivity in pickup, delivery, and gateway operations.

  • DHL (5 yrs 1 mo)
    • Director, Head of Trend Research
      Feb 2020 - Sep 2021 · 1 yr 8 mos

    • Senior Manager, Innovation
      Feb 2019 - Jan 2020 · 1 yr

    • Project Manager, Innovation & Trend Research
      Sep 2016 - Jan 2019 · 2 yrs 5 mos

      Led the development and commercialization of new technology solutions in logistics operations using artificial intelligence, computer vision, and sensor technologies. Delivered industry thought leadership on technology, social, and business trends impacting the logistics industry via speaking engagements, trend reports, and strategy workshops. Lead the creation of industry trend reports to share insight on key trends at the intersection of technology and logistics.

  • Plantronics ()
    • Product Manager, Innovation
      Jul 2015 - Aug 2016 · 1 yr 2 mos

      Led the digital transformation strategy and execution from a hardware product portfolio into an IoT services platform. Led strategic partnerships with startups to develop new services within the Plantronics cloud platform. Developed R&D projects into new products that create new revenue streams for Plantronics.

    • Product Manager
      Jan 2014 - Jun 2015 · 1 yr 6 mos

      Developed wearable technology and software solutions that create new growth opportunities for Plantronics. Developed strategic partnerships with startups in key industries to drive co-development of hardware and software systems.

  • Plantronics ()
    • Intern, Product Management Senior Staff
      May 2013 - Aug 2013 · 4 mos

      Conducted strategic market research. Reported directly to SVP of Product Management.

    • Intern, Product Management
      Jun 2012 - Jun 2013 · 1 yr 1 mo

      Developed a global market model for largest business line to inform regional sales and marketing decision making in 14 worldwide offices.

  • Student Life and University Guide at UC Santa Cruz
    Jan 2009 - Jun 2013 · 4 yrs 6 mos

    Performed tours of the UCSC campus to groups of 30 or more guests, served on questionnaire panels to audiences of 100+ prospective students, families, and university faculty.