ABOUT AIR FREIGHT OPERATIONS

The Air Freight Operations team plays a pivotal role in managing the import and export of goods by air. Their primary objective is to create and maintain efficient processes, guaranteeing the seamless movement of goods by collaborating with Airline partners, Procurement and capacity management, network offices, vendors, and customs brokers, ultimately contributing to profitability.

JOB SUMMARY

The Head of AFR Commercials will spearhead the procurement of airline services, fostering collaboration with the network, customers, and the House of Pricing to formulate strategic pricing strategies for RFQs and drive profitable growth in the airfreight business. This role involves monitoring core carrier compliance and maximizing contributions by eliciting appropriate responses from local airlines. Additionally, the role entails working closely with the RFQ team to determine pricing for airfreight services, making pricing decisions, and collaborating with the IMPAT team to implement large RFQs. Furthermore, collaboration with commercial teams will be essential to expand the airfreight export business.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Coordination of Global Procurement Strategy

Coordinate the execution of the global procurement strategy for AFR at the country level, ensuring end-to-end coverage.
Ensure efficient route planning and allocation of capacity within the country.
Forecast supply and demand dynamics to optimize procurement strategies.
Maintain seamless communication and alignment with regional and global AFR management teams.

Contract Negotiation and Management

Perform negotiations of key contracts with carriers to secure favorable rates and terms.
Coordinate end-to-end capacity procurement at the country level, optimizing network procurement and consolidation opportunities.
Set internal rates for local procurement activities and monitor centrally set rates.
Escalate local carrier performance issues and collaborate with carrier management for resolution.

Airfreight Business Development

Procure rates and capacity from airlines to meet airfreight business objectives, collaborating closely with the RFQ team.
Participate in Tender Review Board conference calls to influence stakeholders and win RFQs in favor of the country.
Analyze market trends, pricing, and capacity requirements, arranging soft blocks with airlines as needed.
Engage with airline officials to build professional relationships and stay updated on industry developments.
Monitor core carrier adherence and drive maximum contribution through effective communication and negotiations.

People Management and Team Development

Develop a culture of quality, service excellence, flexibility, and cost consciousness within the team.
Foster team spirit and multitasking capabilities, ensuring efficient planning, organization, and direction.
Define individual key performance indicators (IKOs/KPIs), conduct performance appraisals, and provide coaching for continuous improvement.
Manage resource allocation and training needs, developing a highly skilled and motivated functional department.

COMPETENCIES

Functional Competencies

Product Knowledge: Comprehensive understanding of the company's products, services, and market trends to effectively align strategies and drive business growth.
Stakeholder Management: Building and maintaining relationships with internal and external stakeholders to facilitate collaboration and achieve common goals.
Business Development: Identifying growth opportunities, developing business plans, and implementing strategies to expand the business and increase revenue.
Customer Relationship Management: Building and maintaining strong relationships with clients, understanding their needs, and ensuring high levels of customer satisfaction.
Technology and Innovation: Embracing technology advancements, identifying innovative solutions, and leveraging digital tools to enhance business processes and competitiveness.

Behavioral Competencies

Agility: Ability to adapt quickly to changing operational needs and environments.
Continuous Learning: Willingness to learn and improve skills to enhance performance.
Attention to Detail: Consistently maintaining accuracy and precision in tasks.
Quality Orientation: Commitment to delivering high-quality results and services.
Leadership and Team Management: Directing teams towards goals and optimizing productivity by promoting accountability.
Initiative: Taking proactive steps to improve processes or address issues.
Strategic Planning: Developing and implementing strategic plans to achieve organizational objectives.

WHO CAN APPLY?

Must Have

Bachelor’s degree in BBA (or equivalent)
IATA qualification, DGR certification.
10-15 years of experience (dependent upon country size) in AFR Commercials/ Product Solution Design Function or in another relevant Management position in a Freight Forwarding Company or a Consultancy or in a large Multinational business in India / Asia
Extensive knowledge of AFR forwarding business and carrier/supplier landscape.
Proven track record in people management role (leadership, motivation, and people skills).

Preferred

MBA, with professional experience in MS office.

Head - Air Freight Commercials,

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