Manager -Air Freight Operations

Role & responsibilities

Operational Leadership

• Lead and oversee end-to-end Air Import and Air Export operations.
• Ensure smooth execution of shipment bookings, documentation, customs clearance coordination, cargo movement, and final delivery.
• Monitor shipment lifecycle and proactively address operational exceptions.
• Ensure compliance with customer SOPs, service agreements, and operational standards.
• Drive operational excellence through standardized processes and best practices.

Customer & Stakeholder Management

• Manage relationships with key customers and serve as the escalation point for operational issues.
• Ensure timely communication and visibility of shipment status.
• Collaborate closely with Commercial, Customer Service, Finance, and Supply Chain teams.
• Develop strong partnerships with airlines, GSAs, transporters, customs brokers, and overseas agents.

Team Management & Development

• Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing Air Freight Operations team.

• Establish performance objectives and conduct regular performance reviews.

• Identify training and development opportunities to enhance team capability.

• Ensure effective workforce planning and resource allocation.

• Compliance & Risk Management

• Ensure adherence to IATA, DGCA, Customs, Dangerous Goods, and other regulatory requirements.

• Maintain operational compliance and readiness for internal and external audits.

• Implement corrective and preventive actions to mitigate operational risks.

• Drive compliance with company policies and quality management systems.

Financial & Performance Management

• Manage operational costs and improve profitability.
• Monitor shipment-level profitability and operational productivity.
• Support billing accuracy, vendor payment validation, and receivable management.
• Identify opportunities for cost optimization and process efficiencies.

Continuous Improvement

• Analyze operational performance metrics and implement improvement initiatives.
• Drive automation and digital transformation projects within operations.
• Implement best-in-class logistics and freight forwarding practices.
• Support strategic initiatives aimed at improving customer experience and operational scalability.

Preferred candidate profile

• 12+ years of experience in Freight Forwarding and Logistics Operations, with significant exposure to Air Freight Operations.
• Minimum 5 years in a managerial or leadership role managing Air Import and Export operations.
• Experience handling large-volume operations, key accounts, and multi-stakeholder environments.
• Strong understanding of international trade regulations, customs procedures, and airline operations.