General Manager

Right Now Recruitment; Altrincham; On-site; GBP 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A well-established air cargo provider is seeking a General Manager to lead operations in Manchester. This senior leadership role encompasses strategic direction, financial performance, and operational excellence in a fast-paced environment. The ideal candidate should possess extensive experience in air cargo or logistics, with proven skills in managing complex operations and driving growth. Strong leadership abilities and compliance awareness are essential for this role.

Qualifications

• Senior leadership experience within air cargo, freight forwarding, or logistics.
• Strong understanding of import/export processes and airline cargo handling.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and decision-making skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead the Manchester branch, setting clear strategic direction.
• Develop and execute growth strategies to increase revenue.
• Oversee daily warehouse, transport, and logistics operations.

Skills

Leadership experience in air cargo or logistics

Understanding of import/export processes

P&L ownership and financial management

Knowledge of aviation regulations

Excellent communication skills

Job description

About the Opportunity

Right Now Group is recruiting on behalf of a well-established and growing air cargo and logistics services provider for a General Manager to lead its Manchester operation.

This is a senior leadership position with full responsibility for operational performance, commercial growth, financial results, and regulatory compliance. The role suits a strategic yet hands‑on leader with strong experience in air freight or cargo operations and a proven ability to manage complex, time‑critical environments.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Strategy

• Lead the Manchester branch, setting clear strategic direction aligned with wider UK objectives.
• Build and maintain a high-performance, customer-focused, and safety-led culture.
• Drive continuous improvement across operations, people, and processes.

Commercial Growth

• Develop and execute growth strategies to increase revenue and market share.
• Build strong relationships with freight forwarders, airlines, and key partners.
• Identify new business opportunities and support sales and pricing initiatives.

Operational Excellence

• Oversee daily warehouse, transport, and logistics operations.
• Ensure consistent service quality, accuracy, and on‑time performance.
• Monitor and improve operational KPIs and service‑level agreements.

Compliance & Risk Management

• Ensure full compliance with aviation security, CAA/IATA regulations, customs, and health & safety requirements.
• Maintain audit readiness and strong quality and security controls.
• Proactively manage operational, financial, and regulatory risks.

Financial & Cost Control

• Full ownership of branch P&L, including budgeting and forecasting.
• Drive profitability through cost control, efficiency, and performance management.
• Track and report financial performance against targets and KPIs.

People Leadership

• Lead, develop, and motivate management and operational teams.
• Set clear expectations and manage performance effectively.
• Promote an inclusive, accountable, and engaged workplace culture.

Skills & Experience Required

• Senior leadership experience within air cargo, freight forwarding, or logistics.
• Strong understanding of import/export processes and airline cargo handling.
• Proven P&L ownership and financial management experience.
• Knowledge of aviation security, CAA/IATA regulations, and customs compliance.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and decision‑making skills.
• Existing airline and integrator relationships are advantageous.
• Experience in wholesale air freight or forwarder-focused environments is preferred.

Candidate Profile

• Customer‑centric with a strong service mindset
• High levels of integrity and compliance awareness
• Results-driven with clear accountability
• Collaborative and people-focused leader
• Resilient and adaptable in a fast‑paced, operational environment
• Committed to continuous improvement and team development