Manager, Air freight, Air & Sea

DSV - Global Transport and Logistics; Gqeberha; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Job summary

DSV – Global transport and logistics in Port Elizabeth invites an experienced Air Freight Manager to lead the air freight product, drive operational excellence, and align with global SOPs. You will manage a portfolio of clients and a team, delivering on-time, compliant service.

You will develop commercial strategies, support sales, monitor KPIs, and oversee P&L. A proactive, deadline-driven leader with knowledge of import air processes is essential, with a focus on customer satisfaction and

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years’ experience in Forwarding & Clearing

Responsibilities

• Oversee end-to-end air freight operations, ensuring on-time, cost-effective, and compliant service delivery.

Skills

Forwarding & Clearing

Managerial

Air freight processes

Communication

Team leadership

Process driven

P&L management

Education

Logistics or Supply Chain

Tools

Office 365

CargoWise

MS Word

Excel

PowerPoint

Outlook

Job description

Location: ZAF - Port Elizabeth, Uitenhage Rd (Struandale Facility)

Job Posting Title: Manager, Air freight, Air & Sea

Time Type: Full Time

Main Purpose of The Role:

The Air Freight Manager is responsible for leading, developing, and growing the air freight product within DSV Air & Sea. This role ensures operational excellence, commercial growth, compliance, and customer satisfaction while aligning with DSV’s global strategy, values, and standard operating procedures.

Minimum Requirements:

• Minimum 5 years’ experience in Forwarding & Clearing
• Managerial experience (advantagous).
• Must have knowledge of import air processes and basic understanding of air export processes
• Person must be organized and be able to manage a portfolio of clients / team of individuals
• Self-Motivated and deadline driven
• Able to work under pressure
• Communicate effectively with local colleagues and clients
• Team player with positive attitude
• Process Driven
• P&L Management Experience advantageous

Qualifications:

Qualification in Logistics or Supply Chain Management an added advantage

Computer packages

Office 365 (Teams, OneNote, Forms), MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook

Cargowise understanding and previous experience would be beneficial

Strong Outlook understanding and competencies

Duties and Responsibilities:

Operational Management

• Oversee end-to-end air freight operations, ensuring on-time, cost-effective, and compliant service delivery.
• Ensure adherence to DSV global SOPs, local regulatory requirements, and airline policies.
• Monitor shipment execution, exception handling, and service recovery to maintain high service levels.
• Drive continuous improvement in processes, productivity, and operational efficiency.
• Ensure accurate and timely documentation, billing, and data integrity within CargoWise and related systems.

Commercial & Business Development

• Drive air freight gross profit growth aligned with branch and regional targets.
• Support the sales team with airfreight product expertise, pricing strategies, and customer solutions.
• Participate in key account management, customer meetings, tenders, and RFQs.
• Analyse trade lanes, capacity, and yield to optimise buying and selling rates.
• Strengthen airline relationships to secure space, competitive rates, and priority uplift.

Financial & Performance Management

• Manage air freight P&L performance, focusing on yield, cost control, and profitability.
• Prepare and manage budgets, forecasts, and KPIs for the air freight product.
• Monitor shipment margins, productivity metrics, and cost drivers, taking corrective action where required.
• Ensure compliance with DSV financial policies, including accruals and WIP management.

People Leadership & Development

• Lead, coach, and develop the air freight team to deliver high performance and engagement.
• Drive a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous learning.
• Ensure adequate staffing, training, and succession planning.
• Conduct performance reviews, goal setting, and skills development in line with DSV standards.

Compliance, Quality & Risk Management

• Ensure compliance with customs regulations, aviation security, IATA standards, and internal audits.
• Support QHSE initiatives and promote DSV’s safety-first culture.
• Manage operational and commercial risk, including claims, insurance, and liability matters.
• Ensure adherence to DSV’s Code of Conduct and corporate governance policies.

Customer Experience

• Act as an escalation point for key customers and service issues.
• Maintain strong relationships with strategic customers and stakeholders.
• Ensure consistent service quality aligned with DSV’s customer promise

Key Interfaces

• Sales & Key Account Management
• Ocean & Road Freight Management
• Airlines, Ground Handlers & Vendors
• Customs & Regulatory Authorities
• Finance & Shared Services
• Regional and Global Product Teams

Electives

• Commercial experience
• Client-orientated and commercially focused.
• Strong with operational processes.
• Able to lead a team and adapt to change.
• Financially orientated.

DSV – Global transport and logistics

Working at DSV means playing in a different league.

As a global leader in transport and logistics, we have been on an extraordinary journey of growth. Let’s grow together as we continue to innovate, digitalise and build on our achievements.

With close to 150,000 colleagues in over 90 countries, we work every day to offer solid services and meet our customers’ needs and help them achieve their goals. We know that the best way to achieve this is by bringing in new talent, fresh perspectives and ambitious individuals like you.

At DSV, performance is in our DNA. We don’t just work – we aim to shape the future of logistics. This ambition fuels a dynamic environment built on collaboration with world‑class team players, accountability and action. We value inclusivity, embrace different cultures and respect the dignity and rights of every individual. If you want to make an impact, be trusted by customers and grow your career in a forward‑thinking company – this is the place to be.

Start here. Go anywhere

Visit dsv.com and follow us on LinkedIn and Facebook.

Disclaimer

Due to the high volume of applications received, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Should an external candidate not hear from us within four (4) weeks following their application, they should consider their application unsuccessful. Strictly fair and non-discriminatory selection procedures will be followed. We use AFFIRMATIVE ACTION (AA) measures in an endeavour to redress the disadvantages in employment experienced by designated groups. Where possible, preference will be given to candidates from the designated groups as defined in the Employment Equity Act and in line with DSV’s Employment Equity plans. DSV reserves the right to defer or close a vacancy at any time.