Senior Freight Operations Specialist

About the Role

The Senior Operations Specialist is a key member of the operations team, responsible for leading day-to-day control of time-critical shipments, coordinating global partners, and ensuring flawless execution across air, road, and multimodal movements.

This role requires strong decision-making, rapid problem-solving, and the ability to manage high-value aviation and time-critical cargo with precision.

The position plays an essential part in delivering world-class service to customers while supporting growth, process improvement, and operational Excellence.

Key Responsibilities

Operational Control & Execution

* Manage and oversee time-critical shipments (AOG, NFO, hand-carry, engines, APUs, parts, spares).

* Coordinate with airlines, handlers, agents, and ground transport partners to ensure seamless end-to-end execution.

* Monitor live shipments and proactively resolve delays, risks, and operational issues.

* Ensure compliance with aviation security, customs, and regulatory requirements.

* Lead operational escalations during out-of-hours or complex logistics movements.

Customer & Stakeholder Communication

* Act as a senior point of contact for key customers, providing real-time updates and proactive communication.

* Build strong relationships with suppliers, carriers, and global partners to ensure performance and reliability.

* Handle service failures with professionalism and drive corrective actions.

Process, Quality & Performance

* Ensure all jobs are executed accurately within internal systems (e.g. Boxtop), including cost control and job profitability checks.

* Conduct post-shipment reviews to identify areas for improvement.

* Support the development and implementation of SOPs, best practices, and operational workflows.

* Champion quality, accuracy, and compliance across every movement.

Team Leadership & Support

* Mentor and support junior operations staff with training and daily guidance.

* Assist the Operations Manager in workload planning and shift coverage.

* Lead by example in delivering high service standards, ownership, and operational discipline.

Commercial & Cost Control

* Negotiate rates with airlines, partners, and suppliers where required.

* Ensure jobs are profitable and in line with company margin expectations.

* Support sales colleagues with operational input for quotes and tenders.

Key Skills & Experience

* 3–5+ years’ experience in freight forwarding, aviation logistics, AOG/time-critical movements, or similar.

* Strong understanding of airfreight processes, cargo operations, and global logistics.

* Ability to work in fast-paced, high-pressure environments with rapid decision-making.

* Excellent communication skills with customers and suppliers.

* Proficiency with freight systems (e.g., Boxtop) and MS Office.

* Knowledge of customs processes and regulatory requirements preferred.

Why Join

* Work with a fast-growing leader in time-critical logistics.

* Be part of a high-performance operations team managing complex, global aviation movements.

* Competitive salary, career development, and opportunities to progress.

* A company culture built on teamwork, speed, and reliability