Asst Cargo Service Manager

Cathay Pacific; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 30 000 - 50 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading international airline is seeking an Assistant Service Manager in Johannesburg. This role involves planning and executing cargo service strategies, ensuring compliance with aviation regulations, and leading a high-performing team. Candidates should have over 4 years of cargo services experience, including strong knowledge of airline operations and excellent leadership skills. Benefits include travel privileges on a global network and well-being programs.

Benefits

Travel privileges on Cathay Pacific Airways Global Network

Extensive well-being programs

Paid leave

Qualifications

• 4+ years of cargo services experience, with 2+ years in supervisory roles.
• Proven ability to lead teams and achieve performance targets.
• Lean Six Sigma Yellow certification preferred.

Responsibilities

• Align cargo operations with regional strategies and service standards.
• Ensure compliance with safety and aviation regulations.
• Monitor and enhance customer satisfaction through innovative service offerings.

Skills

Airline operations knowledge

Interpersonal communication

Time management

Education

University degree in a related discipline

Certification in logistics or supply chain management

Job description

Company Description

Cathay is a leading premium travel lifestyle brand based in Hong Kong, offering products and services across four lines of business – Premium Travel, Cargo, Low-Cost Travel and Lifestyle.

The Cathay Group comprises premium full‑service airline Cathay Pacific, Cargo business like Cathay Cargo, low‑cost airline HK Express, express all‑cargo carrier Air Hong Kong, and various other subsidiaries.

Cathay Pacific was founded in Hong Kong in .

The Group has been deeply committed to its home base, extending to the rest of Greater Bay Area, and making substantial investments to develop Hong Kong as one of the world’s leading international aviation centres.

Join us and discover just how far you can go!

Role Introduction

To support Cathay Cargo’s mission by planning and executing cargo service strategies at the port that drive reliable, customer‑centric air cargo solutions.

You will be responsible to ensure smooth operations and strong service delivery by collaborating closely with internal and external stakeholders.

By providing clear guidance and support, the role empowers teams to meet performance targets while upholding the highest standards of safety, compliance, and sustainability.

Through teamwork, specialized expertise, and innovative practices, you will build customer trust and deliver value, ensuring every shipment contributes to moving cargo that matters to the world.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership & Governance

Align cargo operations with Cathay Cargo’s regional strategy for efficient and reliable service.

Adapt and apply service standards and KPIs set by the Regional Cargo Service Manager and Cargo Manager to local conditions.

Set and monitor SMART goals for the port team, supporting regional performance.

Conduct regular self‑audits and provide feedback on service initiatives, collaborating with the Regional Cargo Service Specialist and Cargo Manager for continuous improvement.

Share comprehensive updates with the RHCS on KPIs, station and supplier performance, team effectiveness, and service gaps.

Approve supplier invoices promptly via SAP, ensuring high standards in operational and financial record‑keeping.

Safety, Compliance & Sustainability

Ensure compliance with all safety, security, and aviation regulations, including PLACI protocols.

Oversee safe handling of dangerous goods, cargo build‑up, and aircraft loading (for Freighter ports), meeting Cathay and regulatory standards.

Implement and maintain Safety Management Systems, Emergency & Accident Response, and Business Continuity Plans with RCSS.

Promote sustainability in cargo operations, supporting Cathay’s ESG commitments.

Investigate safety and service incidents for prompt resolution and learning.

Customer Experience & Service Innovation

Resolve customer issues empathetically across all cargo touchpoints.

Support RHCS / RCSS in enhancing service offerings through innovation and feedback.

Monitor Cargo iQ and service KPIs, addressing gaps to improve customer satisfaction.

Ensure premium handling of special cargo to maintain service differentiation.

Supplier & Regulatory Partnerships

Monitor and improve Supplier Performance Management scores for Cargo Terminal Operators and Ramp Handling Agents.

Build collaborative relationships with GHAs / GSSAs for operational resilience.

Engage with local Civil Aviation and regulatory authorities to uphold compliance.

Support audit readiness and coordinate port audit programs, initiating self‑audits as needed.

Operational Excellence

Oversee trucking, charter services and offline cargo handling for timely execution.

Drive operational excellence using performance tools, KPIs and SLAs.

Use analytics to identify trends and bottlenecks, implementing service improvements.

Apply lean practices for efficiency, aligning local processes with regional and Head Office standards.

Maintain ULD inventory compliance and coordinate asset management.

Implement digital initiatives (e.g., e‑AWB, e‑Freight) to streamline workflows.

Support cost management at the port, optimizing spend on ground handling and related services.

People Leadership & Capability Building

Build and lead a high‑performing port team, fostering the right skills and mindset.

Mentor direct reports, encourage collaboration and model Cathay’s core values.

Conduct regular performance dialogues, set expectations and recognize achievements.

Operational Duty Holder

Serve as the Operational Duty Holder for Hyderabad.

Fulfill Cargo Operational Duty Holder responsibilities as per Cathay Pacific’s best practices.

Be accountable for safe operations, including those contracted to others.

Manage operational performance and supplier compliance with quality and regulatory standards, ensuring procedures are followed and services meet contracted terms.

Requirements

Academic Qualifications

University degree (or tertiary equivalent) in a related discipline.

Additional certification or diploma in logistics, supply chain management, or aviation operations is preferred.

Lean Six Sigma Yellow certification preferred.

Knowledge, Skills, Training And Experience

4+ years of cargo services experience, including 2+ years in a supervisory role.

Strong knowledge of airline operations and international air freight.

Mandatory Cathay Cargo Freighter RCO Licence for freighter ports (as applicable).

Proven ability to set and achieve goals, lead high‑performing teams and drive results.

Excellent interpersonal, communication, decision‑making and time‑management skills.

Benefits

Travel Privileges on Cathay Pacific Airways Global Network.

Extensive well‑being programs including health and employee assistance program benefits to help you stay well.

Paid Leave.

If this position requires a uniform, a uniform allowance will be provided.

Personal & Application Information

Cathay Pacific is an Equal Opportunities Employer.

Personal data provided by job applicants will be used strictly in accordance with our personal data policy and for recruitment purposes only.

All related information will be kept in our file for up to 24 months.

A copy of our Personal Information Collection Statement will be provided upon request by contacting our Data Protection Officer.

We thank all candidates for your interest in Cathay, and regret that only shortlisted candidates will be notified.

Candidates not notified within eight weeks may consider their application unsuccessful.

All job opportunities are published exclusively on our official website.

We advise applicants not to apply through or respond to any third‑party websites or domains.

Kindly exercise caution and avoid unsolicited offers from unofficial sources.

Seniority level

Mid‑Senior level

Employment type

Full‑time

Job function

Other

Industries

Airlines and Aviation

Referrals

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Location

Johannesburg, Gauteng, South Africa

Job Title

Assistant Service Manager

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