Senior Operational Key Account Manager - Defence

DSV; Abu Dhabi; On-site; AED 335,000 - 502,000; Full time

Job summary

DSV is seeking a Senior Operational Key Account Manager - Defense to oversee logistics for strategic Defense/government clients, coordinating air, sea, and warehousing activities. You will drive service excellence, manage relationships, and ensure compliance with export controls and government requirements.

You will lead cross-functional teams to optimize performance, manage tenders and pricing discussions, and deliver reports to management.

Qualifications

• Experience in air and sea freight operations and knowledge of regulatory requirements.
• Proven ability to handle complex tenders for defense/government customers.
• Proficiency with logistics software (WMS, TMS, ERP) and MS Office.

Responsibilities

• Manage end-to-end logistics operations for key Defense/government clients, including air and sea freight forwarding, customs clearance, and warehouse coordination.
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with key Defense accounts to ensure customer satisfaction and long-term partnerships.
• Coordinate with internal departments to ensure timely and accurate delivery service.
• Monitor KPIs/SLA and implement corrective actions as needed.
• Ensure compliance with international shipping regulations and company policies.
• Handle client escalations, providing solutions and acting as liaison between clients and operations.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives to optimize processes and reduce costs.
• Prepare regular reports on account performance and client feedback.
• Oversee scheduling, planning, and allocation of resources for air and sea shipments.
• Perform other duties/projects as assigned by management.
• Know the Defense operation process in terms of pricing, shipments handling, approvals and government relations.

Skills

Defense industry experience

Logistics operations

Client relationship management

Contract management

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Logistics/Supply Chain/Business Administration

Tools

WMS

TMS

ERP

MS Office

Job description

• Senior Operational Key Account Manager - Defence

Senior Operational Key Account Manager - Defense

The Senior Operations Key Account Manager (Defense) 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:

• 1. 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.
• 2. Develop and maintain strong relationships with key Defense accounts to ensure customer satisfaction and long-term partnerships.
• 3. Coordinate with internal departments (operations, customer service, finance, compliance) to ensure timely and accurate delivery service.
• 4. Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs/SLA), operational metrics, and service levels; implement corrective actions when needed.
• 5. Ensure compliance with international shipping regulations, documentation requirements, and company policies.
• 6. Handle client escalations efficiently, providing solutions and acting as the main liaison between clients and operational teams.
• 7. Support continuous improvement initiatives to optimize processes, reduce costs, and enhance service quality.
• 8. Prepare regular reports for management on account performance, operational challenges, and client feedback.
• 9. Oversee scheduling, planning, and allocation of resources for air and sea shipments.
• 10. Any other related duties/projects assigned by the direct supervisor from time to time to meet business needs
• 11. To have knowledge of Defense operation process in terms of Pricing , shipments handling , approvals and government relationship (customs authorities like MOD ,SIRA/GHQ)
• 12. 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.

Competencies

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.