Senior Operational Key Account Manager

DSV - Global Transport and Logistics; Abu Dhabi; On-site; AED 350,000 - 520,000; Full time

Job summary

DSV - Global Transport and Logistics in the United Arab Emirates (Abu Dhabi) seeks a Senior Operations Key Account Manager to lead end-to-end logistics for strategic Defense/government clients, coordinating air and sea freight, customs clearance, and warehousing.

You’ll serve as primary contact, drive operational excellence, and build long-term partnerships while ensuring compliance and high service levels.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in logistics, supply chain or related field.
• Experience in air/sea freight operations for defense/government clients.
• Proficiency with WMS, TMS, ERP and MS Office.

Responsibilities

• Manage end-to-end logistics for key Defense/government clients incl. air/sea freight, customs clearance, and warehouse coordination.
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with Defense accounts for long-term partnerships.
• Coordinate with internal departments to ensure timely, accurate delivery.
• Monitor KPIs/SLA, operational metrics, and take corrective actions.
• Ensure compliance with international shipping regs, documentation and policies.
• Handle client escalations, liaising between clients and operations.
• Support process improvements to reduce costs and enhance service quality.
• Prepare regular management reports on performance and feedback.
• Oversee scheduling and allocation of resources for air/sea shipments.
• Take on other duties to meet business needs.
• Knowledge of Defense pricing, shipments handling, approvals and government relations (MOD, GHQ).
• Perform related duties as required.

Skills

Defense industry experience

Defense contracts handling

Client relationship management

Negotiation skills

Contract management

Leadership

Analytical thinking

Compliance awareness

Education

Bachelor's degree in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or related field

Tools

WMS

TMS

ERP

MS Office

Job description

The Senior Operations Key Account Manager is responsible for managing and overseeing logistics operations for strategic A&D clients in air and sea freight. This role ensures smooth coordination of all transportation(Air,sea ,Road), warehousing (3PL,4PL,Inventory management), and supply chain activities, maintaining high service levels, client satisfaction, and compliance with international shipping regulations. The position serves as the primary point of contact for key accounts, driving operational excellence and supporting business growth.

Responsibilities

• Manage end-to-end logistics operations for key Defense/government clients, including air and sea freight forwarding, customs clearance(Export / import control), and warehouse coordination.
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with key Defense accounts to ensure customer satisfaction and long-term partnerships.
• Coordinate with internal departments (operations, customer service, finance, compliance) to ensure timely and accurate delivery service.
• Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs/SLA), operational metrics, and service levels; implement corrective actions when needed.
• Ensure compliance with international shipping regulations, documentation requirements, and company policies.
• Handle client escalations efficiently, providing solutions and acting as the main liaison between clients and operational teams.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives to optimize processes, reduce costs, and enhance service quality.
• Prepare regular reports for management on account performance, operational challenges, and client feedback.
• Oversee scheduling, planning, and allocation of resources for air and sea shipments.
• Any other related duties/projects assigned by the direct supervisor from time to time to meet business needs
• To have knowledge of Defense operation process in terms of Pricing , shipments handling , approvals and government relationship (customs authorities like MOD ,SIRA/GHQ)
• Perform any other related duties or projects assigned by management from time to time to meet business requirements.

Qualifications And Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or related field.
• Proven experience in air and sea freight operations and oversized projects(Charters,breakbulk)
• Proficiency in logistics software (WMS, TMS, ERP) and MS Office.

Specific Skills

• Extensive Experience in Defense industry (military, MOD & GHQ controlled )
• Proven Expertise in handling complex tenders for large defense/government customers.
• Experience in sales and providing solutions based on customer needs
• Strong understanding of Defense air and sea freight operations and regulations & Export control /ITAR/MOD/DGR (Class 1 cargo) Awareness.
• Excellent Defense client relationship management and communication skills.
• Analytical and problem-solving abilities with attention to detail.
• Leadership and team coordination skills.
• Strong negotiation and contract management capabilities.
• Commitment to operational excellence, safety, and compliance.

DSV – Global transport and logistics

Working at DSV means playing in a different league. As a global leader in transport and logistics, we have been on an extraordinary journey of growth. Let’s grow together as we continue to innovate, digitalise and build on our achievements. With close to 150,000 colleagues in over 90 countries, we work every day to offer solid services and meet our customers’ needs and help them achieve their goals. We know that the best way to achieve this is by bringing in new talent, fresh perspectives and ambitious individuals like you. At DSV, performance is in our DNA. We don’t just work – we aim to shape the future of logistics. This ambition fuels a dynamic environment built on collaboration with world-class team players, accountability and action. We value inclusivity, embrace different cultures and respect the dignity and rights of every individual. If you want to make an impact, be trusted by customers and grow your career in a forward-thinking company – this is the place to be.

Start here. Go anywhere

Visit dsv.com and follow us on LinkedIn and Facebook.