Air Freight Manager
DHL Global Forwarding (DGF) is the world leader in air freight services and one of the leading providers of ocean freight services. Around 30,000 employees ensure we transport customer shipments by air or sea. DGF's logistics solutions span the entire supply chain, from the factory to the shop floor, including special transport-related services.
About the role
We have an exciting opportunity for an Air Freight Manager to lead and oversee Air Import and Air Export operations while driving operational excellence, customer satisfaction, employee engagement, and financial performance. This role is responsible for the overall Air Freight business, including P&L management, strategic execution, operational performance, and people leadership. The Air Freight Manager will lead Air Import and Air Export teams, partner closely with internal stakeholders, and ensure delivery of high-quality, compliant, and customer-focused solutions.
Responsibilities
- Own overall Air Freight P&L performance and drive achievement of revenue, profitability, productivity, and operational targets.
- Lead and develop Air Import and Air Export teams to ensure consistent execution, service excellence, and operational efficiency.
- Drive performance against key operational KPIs and implement corrective actions when performance gaps are identified.
- Ensure customer requirements are met and maintain a strong focus on service quality, customer satisfaction, and retention.
- Serve as the senior escalation point for critical customer, operational, and service-related issues.
- Ensure compliance with all regulatory requirements, company policies, aviation security standards, and operational procedures.
- Build and maintain strong relationships with key customers, carriers, suppliers, and internal stakeholders.
- Partner with Sales, Product, Customer Service, Operations, and Global Service Centers to support business growth and customer success.
- Lead continuous improvement initiatives to enhance productivity, streamline processes, and improve overall operational performance.
- Oversee implementation and onboarding of new customer business and operational transitions.
- Develop talent through coaching, performance management, succession planning, and employee development initiatives.
- Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, safety, and continuous improvement throughout the Air Freight organization.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in business, Supply Chain, Logistics, or a related field preferred.
- 8+ years of freight forwarding experience with significant Air Freight Import and Export expertise.
- 5+ years of leadership experience managing teams and operational functions.
- Strong understanding of Air Freight operations, regulations, compliance requirements, and industry best practices.
- Proven experience managing operational KPIs, financial performance, and departmental budgets.
- Demonstrated ability to lead, motivate, and develop high-performing teams.
- Strong customer focus with exceptional relationship management and communication skills.
- Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.
- Experience using Cargo Wise is preferred.
- Experience with temperature-controlled, pharmaceutical, perishable, and dangerous goods shipments is a plus.
- Experience in a unionized environment is preferred.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite.
Pay
$105,682.50 - $140,910.00+ (based on experience)
Benefits
- Compensation: Competitive base salary plus role-dependent performance-based incentives.
- 401(k) Match: $1-for-$1 match up to 4% quarterly + 2% annual base contribution.
- Stock Purchase Plan: Ability to purchase Deutsche Post AG shares at a discounted rate.
- Medical: Comprehensive plans covering preventive care, inpatient/outpatient services, and prescriptions.
- Vision: Optional coverage for exams, frames, and contacts.
- Dental: Optional coverage for preventive, basic, and major services.
- Paid Time Off: 7 major holidays, 8 floating holidays, and accrued vacation/sick days.
Why Join Us
At DHL Global Forwarding, we invest in our employees’ growth, providing training, guidance, and career advancement opportunities. We believe in building careers, not just jobs, and empowering our team to develop skills and achieve long-term success. Be part of DHL Group, the world’s leading logistics provider, operating in 220+ countries.