Associate Director- Cargo Operations

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Location:

Reporting to:

Role Overview

The Associate Director will oversee and drive the strategic and operational management of cargo handling for both domestic and international operations in the North India region. This role requires a strong leader with proven analytical and managerial expertise to ensure operational excellence, regulatory compliance, and sustainable growth in cargo handling efficiency.

Key Responsibilities

1. Strategic Leadership & Planning

Develop and implement strategic plans for optimizing domestic and international cargo handling across North India.

Collaborate with senior leadership to set performance targets and growth objectives.

Drive regional alignment with global and national cargo handling strategies.

2. Operational Management

Oversee end-to-end cargo handling operations, ensuring safety, efficiency, and compliance with regulatory standards.

Implement process improvements to reduce dwell time and enhance throughput capacity.

Monitor performance metrics and take corrective action where required.

3. Compliance & Quality Assurance

Ensure compliance with DGCA, BCAS, customs, and other regulatory authorities’ requirements.

Maintain adherence to international safety and quality standards for cargo handling.

Conduct regular audits and inspections to maintain operational integrity.

4. Stakeholder & Client Management

Build and maintain strong relationships with lines, freight forwarders, regulatory bodies, and ground handling partners.

Resolve escalated client issues promptly while ensuring service level agreements are met.

Represent the organization at industry forums, trade bodies, and key business meetings.

5. People & Leadership

Lead, mentor, and motivate a diverse team of managers, supervisors, and frontline staff.

Develop talent pipelines and succession plans for key operational roles.

Foster a culture of accountability, safety, and continuous improvement.

Qualifications & Experience

• Education: MBA from a reputed B-School (Operations, Supply Chain, or General Management preferred).
• Experience: Minimum 10–15 years in cargo handling/logistics/aviation operations, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role.

Technical Skills:

• Strong understanding of domestic & international cargo operations, regulations, and best practices.
• Proficiency in data analytics tools, KPI monitoring, and process optimization.

Soft Skills:

• Exceptional analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Strong leadership and people management skills.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and stakeholder engagement capabilities.

Key Competencies

• Strategic Thinking & Planning
• Operational Excellence & Process Improvement
• Regulatory Compliance Management
• Team Leadership & Development
• Data-Driven Decision Making
• Crisis & Risk Management