Head of Airfreight Operations - Milan
About the Company
Our client is a leading international freight forwarding and logistics provider with a strong global presence across Air Freight, Ocean Freight, Road Freight, and Contract Logistics. Due to continued growth and investment within the Italian market, they are seeking an experienced Head of Operations to lead and develop their operational teams across Italy.
This is a key leadership role, responsible for driving operational excellence, customer satisfaction, profitability, and team performance while supporting the company's ambitious growth plans.
The Role
As Head of Operations, you will oversee all freight forwarding operations, ensuring the efficient management of air, ocean, and road freight activities. You will lead a team of operational managers and specialists, focusing on service quality, process optimisation, productivity, and customer delivery.
Working closely with the Managing Director, Commercial teams, and regional stakeholders, you will play a critical role in scaling the business and supporting new customer acquisitions.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and manage all freight forwarding operations across Italy
- Oversee Air Freight, Ocean Freight, Customs, and Road Freight activities
- Develop and mentor operational leadership teams
- Drive operational KPIs, service performance, and profitability
- Ensure compliance with company procedures and industry regulations
- Implement process improvements and operational best practices
- Support strategic customer implementations and onboarding projects
- Collaborate with commercial teams to support customer growth and retention
- Manage carrier, supplier, and vendor relationships
- Take ownership of budgeting, resource planning, and operational cost control
- Build a high-performance culture focused on customer experience and continuous improvement
Requirements
- Proven leadership experience within freight forwarding operations
- Background in Air Freight and Ocean Freight operations management
- Experience managing multi-site teams and complex logistics operations
- Strong understanding of international forwarding, customs, and transport regulations
- Demonstrated ability to improve operational performance and profitability
- Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills
- Experience working within an international freight forwarding environment
- Fluent Italian and professional English
Preferred Background
We are particularly interested in individuals currently working as:
- Head of Operations
- Operations Director
- Air & Ocean Operations Manager
- Branch Manager
- Freight Forwarding Manager
- National Operations Manager
from leading international freight forwarding organisations.
What's on Offer
- Opportunity to join a growing international logistics business
- High-profile leadership role with significant influence on the Italian operation
- Collaborative and entrepreneurial working environment
- Competitive salary, bonus, and benefits package
- Clear long-term career progression opportunities within a global organisation
FAQs
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