Assistant Manager, Freighter Operations

AirAsia; Kuala Lumpur; On-site; MYR 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading airline in Kuala Lumpur is seeking an Assistant Manager – Freighter Operations to oversee cost control and operational compliance. In this role, you will manage invoices, support cost-saving initiatives, and ensure all activities align with contractual obligations. The ideal candidate should have a Bachelor's degree, 3–5 years of relevant experience, and strong analytical skills. This position offers the opportunity to play a key role in enhancing operational efficiency in a dynamic environment.

Qualifications

• Minimum 3–5 years in airline or cargo operations, preferably with exposure to cost control.
• Experience handling MRO contracts or disputes is highly desirable.

Responsibilities

• Oversee cost control and operational compliance of freighter aircraft operations.
• Analyze costs associated with freighter operations and identify cost-saving opportunities.
• Review and approve vendor invoices for accuracy and compliance.

Skills

Strong analytical and financial acumen

Understanding of aviation maintenance

Proficient in G sheets

Excellent communication skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Aviation Management, Engineering, Finance, Logistics, or related field

MBA or similar qualification

Tools

ERP systems

AMOS

Invoice management tools

Job description

Assistant Manager – Freighter Operations (Cost & Compliance)

Department: Freighter Management

Reporting to: Head of Freighter Management

Location: RedQ

Job Purpose:

The Assistant Manager – Freighter Operations is responsible for overseeing cost control and operational compliance related to freighter aircraft operations. This includes managing and verifying invoices for maintenance, ground handling, and crew-related activities, and handling technical and financial disputes with MROs. The role ensures that all cost drivers are monitored, justified, and aligned with contractual obligations and operational efficiency targets.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Cost Oversight & Control
   • Monitor and analyze costs associated with freighter operations, including maintenance, ground handling, crew travel/stay, and fuel uplift.
   • Identify cost‑saving opportunities and support initiatives to improve cost efficiency across operational activities.
   • Track and manage maintenance costs in alignment with budgetary allocations and forecasted spend.
2. Invoice Verification
   • Review, verify, and approve vendor invoices (MROs, ground handlers, crew accommodations, fuel providers, etc.) for accuracy and compliance with contracts.
   • Liaise with Finance and Procurement teams to ensure timely processing and resolution of billing discrepancies.
   • Maintain detailed records of invoices and payments for audit and reconciliation purposes.
3. Maintenance & MRO Liaison
   • Serve as the point of contact for maintenance vendors (MROs) for technical cost‑related issues.
   • Coordinate with engineering/maintenance departments to verify the necessity and accuracy of services billed.Resolve technical and commercial disputes with MROs in a timely and professional manner.
4. Ground Handling & Crew Coordination (Cost‑Focused)
   • Monitor contracts and invoices related to ground handling, towing, parking, and crew accommodation.
   • Ensure operational costs associated with ground handling and crew logistics are within approved budgets.
5. Data Analysis & Reporting
   • Develop and maintain dashboards or reports tracking operational cost KPIs.
   • Provide periodic cost analysis reports to management with insights and recommendations.
   • Support budgeting and forecasting processes by providing historical cost data and variance analyses.
6. Contract & Compliance Management
   • Ensure all operational activities and vendor engagements are aligned with signed SLAs and contract terms.
   • Participate in contract reviews and renewals, providing feedback on performance and cost‑related clauses.

Key Interfaces:

• Maintenance & Engineering Team
• Ground Handling Providers
• MRO Vendors
• Flight Operations & Crew Scheduling
• Finance & Accounts Payable
• Procurement
• Legal (for disputes and contract interpretation)

Qualifications & Experience:

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in Aviation Management, Engineering, Finance, Logistics, or related field. License/Certificate in Aircraft maintenance.
• MBA or similar qualification is an advantage.

Experience:

• Minimum 3–5 years in airline or cargo operations, preferably with exposure to cost control, vendor management, and maintenance operations.
• Experience handling MRO contracts or disputes is highly desirable.

Skills:

• Strong analytical and financial acumen.
• Understanding of aviation maintenance, MRO operations, and cargo ground handling processes.
• Proficient in G sheets, ERP systems, AMOS and invoice management tools.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and stakeholder management skills.

Key Competencies:

• Detail‑oriented with strong problem‑solving skills.
• Proactive and organized.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a high‑paced environment.
• Strong interpersonal and cross‑functional coordination abilities.