Regional GM - Freight Forwarding

Our client is a leading global Tier 1 aviation services organisation, renowned for delivering world-class ground handling, cargo, and support services at major international airports. With an expanding footprint across Africa, the business is advancing a transformative regional strategy to enhance service excellence and operational consistency across key emerging markets.

As part of this strategic growth, the company is seeking an accomplished Regional General Manager to lead freight forwarding operations across Southern Africa—covering South Africa, Mozambique, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. This pivotal role will be responsible for shaping the sub-regional agenda, ensuring compliance with international safety and regulatory standards, and delivering high-performance, cost-effective services. The role offers a significant opportunity to influence operational maturity, drive sustainable growth, and strengthen regional competitiveness in the aviation logistics sector.

🔹 Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Operations Management

• Provide strategic leadership across all regional stations to ensure consistent service quality and operational alignment
• Drive continuous improvement in service delivery and performance frameworks across airport locations
• Ensure regulatory compliance and safety standards exceed local and international requirements
• Lead contract mobilisation and station transitions with scalable, efficient implementation plans
• Manage station KPIs, staff training, service levels, and corrective actions for optimal delivery

Stakeholder Engagement & Governance

• Serve as primary representative to aviation authorities, customs, immigration, and key government entities
• Strengthen client relationships and ensure alignment of operations with customer expectations
• Champion cross-functional collaboration with global and local leadership to embed best practices
• Oversee QHSE and security frameworks in coordination with operational heads and country GMs

Financial Management & Commercial Growth

• Develop and control the annual budget and business plan for the Southern Africa region
• Identify and pursue commercial growth opportunities in line with strategic objectives
• Analyse financial and operational metrics to guide resource allocation and profitability initiatives
• Provide insight on technology integration, process optimisation, and commercial partnerships
• Ensure accurate reporting and rigorous control over capital and operational expenditure

🔹 Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor's or Master’s degree in Business Administration, Operations, or related field; MBA preferred
• Minimum 10 years’ senior leadership experience in freight forwarding or aviation logistics operations
• Strong expertise in operational excellence, compliance, and stakeholder engagement in Southern Africa
• Proven ability to manage multi-country teams and complex regulatory environments
• Experience in financial planning, performance analysis, and strategic business development
• Fluent in English; proficiency in Portuguese or local languages is an advantage
• In-depth knowledge of airport ground handling, logistics, and aviation-related services