Manager - Cargo Operations

Main Objective Of Role

Key Responsibilities

• Identify operational objectives and implement approved strategies, policies, and procedures to ensure safe, efficient, and revenue-optimised cargo operations across all aircraft types and operational locations.
• Ensures compliance with Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) across all cargo operations, maintaining consistency and accuracy.
• Manages and facilitates investigations of accidents, incidents, service failures, irregularities, and customer complaints, ensuring root-cause identification and implementation of corrective and preventive actions.
• Prepares and monitors Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) and Safety Performance Targets in compliance with UAE GCAA standards, covering both bulk and ULD-based operations.
• Oversees day-to-day cargo operations at DXB and DWC, ensuring consistent handling standards, and service quality with dnata and other ground handling partners.
• Identifies, evaluates and recommends short, medium, and long-term infrastructure, automation, and resource requirements to support current and future cargo operations.
• Liaises with dnata and other third-party service providers at DWC to ensure service delivery, SLA compliance, and operational readiness for all aircraft types.
• Supports cargo product development, including system automation and the launch cargo products (pharma, express, automotive, oversized cargo, etc.).
• Takes ownership of all cargo-related documentation within the Ground Handling Manual (GHM) and ensures timely updates, regulatory alignment, and internal approvals.
• Manages cargo safety, security, and risk frameworks, in coordination with Safety & Security, ensuring proper documentation, implementation, and compliance across the operation.
• Liaises with government authorities (Customs, Health, Police, and other regulators) at DXB and DWC to ensure the smooth movement of cargo, courier, and mail.
• Ensures all ground handling contracts include the required scope of services for both bulk and palletised operations, covering acceptance, ULD handling, warehouse activities, ramp processes, and service standards.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree (3+ years)
• Fluent in English
• Minimum 8 years of experience in cargo operations, freight handling, aviation ground operations Experience in managing large operational teams in cargo, aviation, or ground handling environments
• Years with qualifications: 8 - 10 years
• Advanced Cargo & Dangerous Goods courses (Cargo Knowledge, Documentation, Special Load Handling, DGR Cat 6 or CBTA equivalent) Dangerous Goods Regulations (IATA CBTA 7.3A or UAE GCAA FIT4.1D) Safety Management Systems Certification Aviation Security Certification Special Cargo Products Certification
• Cargo EDI license desirable Weight & Balance license desirable

Competencies

• Customer Focus
• Teamwork
• Effective Communication
• Personal Accountability & Commitment to achieve
• Resilience & Flexibility (Can do attitude)
• Decision Making

• Inspiring & Developing Others

• Strategic Thinking
• Business Acumen

Isr Requirements