Manager - Cargo Operations

Job Description

Manager/Associate Manager – Cargo Operations (India Region)

Function: Commercial
Location: Mumbai
Reports To: Regional Operations Manager

Job Purpose

Manage day-to-day cargo operations at assigned station(s), ensuring compliance with Air India standards, regulatory requirements, safety norms, and service commitments. Monitor shipment flow, capacity utilization, inventory, and operational performance to optimize efficiency and minimize delays.

Key Accountabilities

Operational Management

• Oversee cargo operations at assigned stations and ensure adherence to Air India policies and local regulatory requirements.
• Monitor operational KPIs, FSUs, service levels, and operational discrepancies.
• Coordinate with internal teams, freight forwarders, and GHAs to ensure smooth cargo movement.
• Optimize routing, capacity allocation, and equipment utilization.
• Ensure accurate preparation and verification of cargo documentation, including airway bills, customs, and export/import documents.

Compliance & Safety

• Ensure compliance with aviation, customs, security, and other applicable regulations.
• Implement and monitor safety procedures, including hazardous cargo handling requirements.

Process Improvement

• Identify and resolve operational issues related to cargo handling, transportation, and documentation.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and improve service quality.

Skills Required

• Project Management
• Communication & Interpersonal Skills
• Stakeholder Management
• Negotiation Skills
• Attention to Detail
• Problem Solving

Key Interfaces

Internal

• Cargo Operations, Sales, Customer Service, Procurement, and other cross-functional teams.
• Coordinate inventory, shipment planning, customer issue resolution, and operational execution.

External

• Freight Forwarders and Ground Handling Agents for shipment planning, handling, and issue resolution.
• Customers for service support, shipment updates, and query management.
• Regulatory Authorities (Customs, Aviation, Security Agencies) to ensure compliance and obtain necessary approvals.

Education & Experience

Education

• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Logistics, Supply Chain, Aviation Management, or related discipline.

Experience

• 10+ years of experience in cargo, logistics, transportation, or aviation operations.
• Proven experience in shipment coordination, cargo handling, inventory management, and stakeholder management.
• Experience in airline cargo operations, team leadership, and process improvement initiatives preferred.
• Familiarity with cargo management systems, operational KPIs, automation, and technology-enabled process improvements is desirable.