Website Swissport
Swissport is the world's largest provider of ground and cargo handling services in the aviation industry. The company provides services on behalf of some 835 client-companies and handles around 230 million passengers and 4.1 million flights (movements) per year. The company operates around 133 wareh… read moreouses and moves approx. 4.3 million tonnes of cargo. With a workforce of around 62,000 personnel, Swissport is active at more than 280 stations in 48 countries across five continents, and generates annual consolidated operating revenue of EUR 2.7 billion. mission statement: To provide the aviation industry with consistent and tailor- made solutions around the globe, for a better customer experience. In order to achieve the goal of our mission, Swissport is focused on consolidating and strengthening our market position to ensure we are constantly driving industry innovation in key areas such as service, quality and reliability. Swissport is a people-focused organisation – without our people we simply cannot meet our goals and achieve our vision. As such, we focus on the principles of sustainability and compliance, living by the "Three Ps”: People Professionalism Partnership The ongoing professional development of the people within the Swissport family ensures that: We show respect towards our people and their values; we do not compromise on safety and work with enthusiasm and enjoyment. We are pioneers; working constantly on achieving sustainable results, we creatively explore new options and improved solutions. Continually striving to exceed the expectations of our clients and our commitments, we deliver excellent service; in any place at any time. Geographical scope of operations Swissport currently operates in 48 countries. Business policy Swissport is recognized as the benchmark in terms of value for money, customer dedication, and cost management. The company has established a global reputation for being a valued business partner, not only because of its financial resources and modern ground support equipment, but also due to its intangible assets, particularly management expertise and a brand name that stands for superior quality. O.R. Tambo, Kempton Park, 1627, South Africa
Job Overview:
We are looking for a senior leader to oversee cargo operations across the Africa region. The role focuses on driving operational performance, profitability, and safety, while leading station management teams and ensuring compliance with SPI standards. The successful candidate will build strong relationships with key stakeholders, deliver innovative customer-focused solutions, and drive meaningful change across the organization.
Main Responsibilities:
Safety & Operations
Lead cargo operations while ensuring health, safety, and compliance standards are met.
Promote a safety-first culture and support QHSE investigations and best-practice sharing.
P&L & Performance Management
Monitor financial and operational performance, identify trends, and implement improvements.
Support budget preparation, capital investments, and resource planning.
Quality & Efficiency
Ensure delivery of operational KPIs, service quality, and productivity.
Drive continuous improvement, innovation, and compliance with operational standards.
Leadership & People Development
Develop and coach management teams to achieve business goals and enhance staff performance.
Promote talent development, succession planning, and positive employee relations.
Business Growth & Customer Focus
Build and maintain strong strategic relationships with customers and stakeholders.
Identify commercial opportunities and drive customer retention and satisfaction.
Strategic & Change Leadership
Challenge operational status quo and drive organizational improvements.
Support integration of innovation and transformation projects.
Relationship Management
Foster trust internally and externally, promoting a customer-centric culture.
Key Performance Indicators
Safety: aircraft, GSE, infrastructure damages, occupational accidents
Operational & Quality: productivity, workforce utilization, OTP, service times, NPS, station scorecard
Financial: revenue, EBIT, EBIT margin
Requirements:
Bachelors degree or equivalent
Minimum 7 years’ experience in Operations and 5 years in a leadership position
Strong leadership skills and a proven track record of managing and motivating all levels to achieve operational goals
Fluency in English, other languages an advantage
Strong understanding of financial measures and knowledge of labour laws and regulations
Ability to build strategic relationships in the field and influence change
Solid strategic analysis, problem solving, issue resolution and decision-making skills
Proven ability to communicate within a multicultural environment across all levels within the organization
Strong understanding of internal customer and external market dynamics
Excellent ability to work well under pressure; make quick decisions and execute
Knowledge of Ground Service equipment, GSE Maintenance, ramp and the airport environment
Proven experience of leading teams and getting results in a multicultural environment
Ensure adherence to QHSE policies and procedures
Encourage early reporting of occurrences
Excellent knowledge of IT tools (data analysis, tracking and reporting)
Personal and professional integrity of the highest order
Apply via company website ( http://www.swissport.com ) or
www.linkedin.com