Head of Air Freight Perishables Operations

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

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive base salary + incentives

401(k) Match

Stock Purchase Plan

Medical insurance

Vision coverage

Dental coverage

Paid Time Off

Job summary

DHL Global Forwarding is seeking an Air Freight Perishables Operation Director at ORD, Chicago, to oversee end-to-end perishables airfreight operations, drive profitability, and optimize service delivery. This senior role requires deep airfreight expertise and hands-on leadership to align with regional strategies and customer requirements.

The role collaborates with DHL Air Freight networks, manages key stakeholder expectations, and drives continuous improvements while ensuring compliance with

Qualifications

• 10+ years in freight forwarding airfreight operations (handling, docs, clearance)
• 5+ years of leadership/management experience
• Experience using CargoWise software preferred
• Proficient in Microsoft Office, especially Excel
• Strong organizational, analytical, and project management abilities
• People management and development skills

Responsibilities

• Drive airfreight perishables operation and profitability at station level
• Monitor KPIs and collaborate with DHL teams to optimize service
• Act as point of contact for OPS and service quality issues
• Support training and ensure compliance with global procedures and policies
• Develop airline relationships and negotiate local rates
• Contribute to country airfreight strategy and growth initiatives

Skills

Airfreight operations

Leadership/management

CargoWise

MS Excel

Project management

Analytical skills

People management

Tools

CargoWise

Microsoft Office

Job description

DHL Global Forwarding is seeking an Air Freight Perishables Operation Director at ORD, Chicago, to oversee end-to-end perishables airfreight operations, drive profitability, and optimize service delivery. This senior role requires deep airfreight expertise and hands-on leadership to align with regional strategies and customer requirements.

The role collaborates with DHL Air Freight networks, manages key stakeholder expectations, and drives continuous improvements while ensuring compliance with