Her Story
About Marisa
Marisa Ramos is a seasoned logistics and customs professional with more than 32 years of experience in global trade, supply chain operations, and customs brokerage. Currently serving as Head of Foreign Trade Zone and Process Improvement at Future Forwarding Company in Atlanta, Georgia, Marisa is recognized for her expertise in streamlining workflows, improving operational efficiency, and leading strategic process innovation. Her current focus includes expanding the company’s foreign trade zone capabilities nationwide while spearheading the rollout of AI-driven tools designed to optimize workflow, reduce employee stress, and enhance operational performance across the organization. Throughout her career, Marisa has built extensive hands-on expertise across every aspect of the logistics industry, including imports, exports, customs brokerage, dispatching, warehousing, and freight operations. She began her career at a young age, learning from industry professionals and gaining practical experience that shaped her comprehensive understanding of global trade. Over the years, she has held leadership roles with organizations including Albatrans International Freight Forwarders and Global Logistical Connections Inc. before advancing into executive leadership at Future Forwarding Company. Marisa is a licensed customs broker, having passed the customs broker examination on her first attempt in 1998 at just 21 years old. She is also a Certified Customs Specialist (CCS) and Certified Zone Specialist (CZS), continually pursuing additional certifications to stay ahead in the ever-evolving logistics industry. Known for her dedication to mentorship, innovation, and continuous learning, Marisa thrives in the fast-paced nature of international trade and customs compliance. She remains passionate about helping organizations strengthen their trade operations through smarter systems and stronger processes. Her leadership style emphasizes collaboration, adaptability, and lifelong learning, values that have helped her build a respected reputation throughout the logistics and customs community.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Marisa
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to a lot of hard work and pure determination. Very early on I knew I wanted to train newcomers, prepare them to be successful. There is nothing more satisfying than seeing their faces light up when everything starts coming full circle. I've always had this drive to not only advance myself but to help others grow and learn, which has been a constant motivator throughout my 32-year career.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best advice I've ever received was never stop learning. If you are not learning something new every single day then you aren’t doing something right. Stay focused and diligent. The hard work will pay off !
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice would be to always ask a lot of questions. If you do not understand a certain aspect of your responsibilities do not be shy to ask questions. When you take full control of your daily workflow you are one step closer to mastering your craft. That is the key become fully immersed and keep learning !
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in our industry at the moment is the ever changing economy in the US. Many people do not realize how the state of affairs in the United States affect the international trade industry. While it’s a challenge, it can also be considered as an opportunity. To me, our challenges are opportunities as well because you have to be able to pivot and learn from the challenges to be successful.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Honesty and integrity are two of the most important values in both my work and personal life.
As long as you follow your heart, believe in yourself and your decisions, then everything will work out as it should.
Join Influential Women and start making an impact. Register now.