"A robust vehicle safety program is key in Latam"
Aimed at saving and improving lives around the world, US-based multinational Merck & Co. (NYSE: MRK) is a leading global biopharmaceutical company which is also known as Merck Sharp & Dohme or MSD outside the United States and Canada.
In this brief case study, we will talk with David Trujillo in Latin America. Based out of Quito Ecuador, he has been MSD’s Regional Leader of EHS (Environmental, Health, and Safety) in Latin America, Central America, and the Caribbean for nearly 10 years.
Besides having a Master of Science degree focused on Safety, Health and Environment, Mr. Trujillo is an electronic engineer specialized in networks and data communication. He is also a race car driver and one of the finalist of the Fleet LatAm Manager of the year award, 2021.
For more on creating a sustatainable and safe fleet in Latin America, register now for Fleet LatAm Conference 2022 (virtual), taking place 26 April at a computer near you.
| Company | MSD (Kenilworth, NJ - USA) |
| Name | David Trujillo |
| Job Position | Regional Fleet Manager, Latin America |
| No. of Countries | 18 Latam (140 worldwide) |
| No of Employees | 71,000 worldwide |
| No of Vehicles | 2,300+ (Latam) |
Focused on providing safe and reliable transportation which fits into the needs of the company at the lowest possible cost, the company’s fleet program revolves around safety, sustainability, trust, responsibility, and driver accountability. It acquires fleet by both outright purchase and financial support models.
“We have more than 2,300 vehicles across 18 countries in the region. Made up of passenger vehicles such as sedans, SUVs, and pickups. In terms of powertrain, 96.6% are ICE (internal combustion engine), 3% hybrids, and 0.4% BEV (battery electric),” says Mr. Trujillo.
To achieve World Class EHS performance, MSD has developed an EHS program. The tools of success include digital platforms and telematics, as well as an array of risk management measures such as company and predictive risk profiling, defensive driving courses (digital and behind the wheel), consequence management, and risk coaches.
“Our goal is to achieve zero adverse events, meaning no injuries, illness, vehicle accidents or fines. We want all our employees to return to their homes safe and sound every day. Saving lives is in our DNA.” says Mr. Trujillo, highlighting a few tips below.
• Develop a robust vehicle safety program
• Make zero accidents a top priority
• Learn to innovate and adapt quickly
• Recognize what the best are doing, and follow their lead
• Leaders, prepare to follow if needed as things could change
In terms of sustainability, the executive pointed out that it is a company priority and that its suppliers play an important role in its overall success. MSD strives to conduct business with individuals and organizations who share our commitment to operating in an environmentally responsible manner.
The company's electrification strategy has involved offering hybrid vehicles as of 2020 and it seeks to migrate to electric vehicles (EV) starting in 2025. And by 2030, it would like to achieve a fleet of 100% EVs.
“For me personally, I am aligning myself in such a manner. I am a race car driver in Ecuador, currently competing in the first Latin America Championship for electric cars which now boasts more than 70 vehicles in the competition,” said Mr. Trujillo.
Monomarca KIA Soul EV race (source: Handout)
Top photo: David Trujillo (Handout)
