Air Logistics Operations Team Leader

Overview

• It's more than a job
• When you work in Freight Logistics and Operations at Kuehne+Nagel, you play a key role in optimising processes and ensuring that inventory and shipments move efficiently.
• But that is not all.
• Your work also helps ensure that vital medicines reach patients on time and supports other essential deliveries, from wind turbines to semiconductors.
• At Kuehne+Nagel, our contribution counts in more ways than we imagine.
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• The Air Logistics Operations Team Leader plays a key role in ensuring end‑to‑end operational excellence by overseeing daily air logistics activities including customs clearance, cargo retrieval/handover, documentation, and transport arrangement.
• This position is based at the Kuehne+Nagel office located at Abu Dhabi International Airport, enabling close coordination with airport authorities, ground handling agents, and operational partners.
• The Air Logistics Operations Team Leader is responsible for managing and optimizing the full cycle of air logistics operations.
• The role ensures seamless coordination of customs processes, cargo handling, documentation, and transportation activities while leading the operational team to deliver high‑quality, timely, and compliant service.
• How you create impact
• Manage end‑to‑end air logistics operations, ensuring timely execution of customs clearance, cargo retrieval/delivery, documentation, and transportation processes.
• Coordinate with Ground Handling Agents for cargo retrieval, including delivery order issuance, slot booking, and customs inspection, and nominate customers/agents for direct terminal collection when required.
• Supervise transportation planning and ensure timely cargo pick‑up and delivery while maintaining accurate and timely updates of shipment milestones and documentation in relevant systems.
• Prepare, verify, and control operational documents such as exit/entry forms, claims, and related paperwork, and promptly report any operational disputes or discrepancies to management.
• Lead the operational team, drive process improvement initiatives, and implement corrective and preventive actions to reduce disruptions and recurring service failures.
• Act as an escalation point for issues such as missing cargo, damage reports, and claims, ensuring proactive communication and coordination with all stakeholders.
• Manage customer communication for shipment updates, resolve inquiries related to direct collection shipments, and promote value‑added services such as pre‑clearance, delivery, and collection.
• Control operational costs, ensure accurate billing in coordination with RCC, and support cost‑optimization efforts including vendor onboarding, rate negotiations, and consolidation opportunities.
• Identify opportunities to enhance operational workflows through automation or outsourcing and ensure full compliance with company guidelines, customs regulations, and industry standards related to Quality, Security, Health & Safety, and Environment.
• #LI-PY1
• What we would like you to bring
• Proven experience in air logistics operations and AOG cargo.
• Strong knowledge of customs clearance procedures and air cargo handling.
• Experience in leading teams or supervising operational functions.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving abilities with a proactive mindset.
• Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple priorities effectively.
• High attention to detail and commitment to operational accuracy.
• Proficiency in shipment documentation and milestone management.
• Valid driving licence.
• Willingness to work in a shift‑based schedule.
• What's in it for you
• You will join a global industry leader in a dynamic airport‑based environment, working closely with international stakeholders and operational partners.
• The role offers strong opportunities for professional growth, exposure to complex logistics operations, involvement in process improvement initiatives, and a collaborative culture that values ownership, innovation, and continuous development, supported by competitive compensation and benefits.
• Who we are
• Logistics shapes everyday life - from the goods we consume to the healthcare we rely on.
• At Kuehne+Nagel, your work goes beyond logistics; it enables both ordinary and special moments in the lives of people around the world.
• As a global leader with a strong heritage and a vision to move the world forward, we offer a safe, stable environment where your career can make a real difference.
• Whether we help deliver life-saving medicines, develop sustainable transportation solutions or support our local communities, your career will contribute to more than you can imagine.
• We kindly advise that placement agencies refrain from submitting unsolicited profiles.
• Any submissions of candidates without prior signed agreement will be considered our property and no fees will be paid.

Kuehne+Nagel Recruitment Team