Air Export Manager

Position Title - Manager – Air Freight Operations Department - Operations – Air Freight Reporting To - Head – Air Freight Operations Location - Mumbai About the Role The Manager – Air Freight Operations is responsible for leading and managing the end-to-end air freight operations function across imports and exports, ensuring service excellence, operational efficiency, regulatory compliance, and profitability. The role will drive process standardization, team development, customer satisfaction, and strategic operational improvements while supporting business growth objectives. 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.

Qualifications Bachelor's Degree in Logistics, Supply Chain, Commerce, Business Administration, or related field. IATA Certification preferred. Professional certifications in Freight Forwarding, Logistics, or Supply Chain Management will be an advantage.

Required Skills 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.