Air Freight Import Director: Lead Strategy & Ops

DHL Global Forwarding; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 130,000 - 173,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive base salary

401(k) match

Stock Purchase Plan

Medical, Vision, Dental

Paid Time Off

Job summary

DHL Global Forwarding in Chicago seeks an Air Freight Import Director to lead end-to-end airfreight import operations, optimize profitability, and drive KPI performance across stations. The role demands strategic oversight, stakeholder collaboration, and a focus on cost-efficient execution.

You will build airline relationships, manage P&L, mentor teams, and partner with pricing, operations, and network colleagues to deliver customer-focused solutions that meet timelines and service standards.

Qualifications

• 10+ years professional experience in freight forwarding airfreight operations.
• 5+ years of leadership/management experience.
• Experience using CargoWise software preferred.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office tools with Excel proficiency.
• Highly organized with project management expertise.
• Analytical mindset and people development skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead and optimize air freight import operations at station level.
• Drive P&L and KPI improvements with teams and networks.
• Coordinate with Air Freight network colleagues and rate negotiations.
• Ensure compliance with SOPs, policies and global initiatives.
• Develop customer satisfaction and employee engagement initiatives.
• Support pricing, new solutions, and workflow improvements.

Skills

Airfreight operations

Leadership/management

Analytical skills

MS Excel

Project management

Organizational skills

Tools

CargoWise

Job description

DHL Global Forwarding in Chicago seeks an Air Freight Import Director to lead end-to-end airfreight import operations, optimize profitability, and drive KPI performance across stations. The role demands strategic oversight, stakeholder collaboration, and a focus on cost-efficient execution.

You will build airline relationships, manage P&L, mentor teams, and partner with pricing, operations, and network colleagues to deliver customer-focused solutions that meet timelines and service standards.