Airfreight Manager

Overview

The Airfreight Manager is responsible for overseeing the entire airfreight function including strategy development, commercial success, and efficient operations. This position aims to foster business growth and profitability while ensuring smooth shipment management, robust carrier relationships, and high service quality.

Key Responsibilities

• Formulate and implement airfreight strategies aligned with overall freight forwarding goals.
• Design competitive service offerings across major trade routes and industry sectors.
• Develop niche services such as pharmaceutical, perishables, e-commerce, and dangerous goods handling.
• Continuously monitor market conditions, including rates and capacity, to adjust strategies proactively.
• Lead and supervise teams managing airfreight imports and exports.
• Ensure seamless shipment processes in accordance with standard operating procedures and service benchmarks.
• Enhance operational efficiency, productivity, and quality of output.
• Address issues promptly and apply corrective measures when necessary.
• Build and maintain strong collaborations with airlines, general sales agents, and other partners.
• Negotiate favorable contracts, rates, and capacity commitments.
• Secure cargo space effectively, especially during peak demand periods.
• Monitor performance of carriers to guarantee service dependability.
• Manage overall airfreight profit and loss, focusing on revenue generation, gross profit, and cost management.
• Formulate pricing models and maintain competitive rate frameworks.
• Support tenders, request for quotations, and customized customer solutions.
• Drive improvements in shipment yield and overall profitability.
• Collaborate closely with sales teams to expand shipment volumes and manage strategic accounts.
• Offer pricing advice, up-to-date market information, and assist in solution development.
• Contribute to customer acquisition and retention strategies.
• Coordinate with ocean freight and customs brokerage units to deliver integrated logistics services.
• Promote alignment across departments to provide a consistent and seamless client experience.
• Support comprehensive freight forwarding growth initiatives.
• Track and report on key performance indicators including shipment volume, revenue, margins, and service quality.
• Provide frequent performance reports and forecasts to senior management.
• Evaluate trade lane efficiency and encourage ongoing enhancements.

Qualifications and Skills

• 6 to 10 years of experience in airfreight within freight forwarding settings.
• Proven competence in managing both operational and commercial/product areas.
• Expertise in airline contract negotiations, pricing strategies, and trade lane oversight.
• Experience leading airfreight import and export teams.
• Strong leadership capabilities and team management skills.
• Commercial mindset with responsibility for P&L outcomes.
• Excellent negotiation and stakeholder relationship skills.
• In-depth knowledge of airfreight logistics and global market trends.
• Capability to integrate strategic growth with operational excellence.
• Advanced analytical and problem-solving aptitude.

Preferred

• IATA certification.
• Experience working within the Middle East logistics market.
• Familiarity with specialized cargo sectors.