Description
ICAT is seeking a dynamic and strategic Aviation Director to lead the planning, execution, and performance of all air transportation activities supporting our global freight forwarding and third-party logistics (3PL) operations. This leadership role is vital in ensuring the delivery of reliable, compliant, and profitable air cargo capacity across scheduled carriers, charter operations, and strategic aviation partners. The successful candidate will oversee operational KPIs, manage a dedicated team, and drive client satisfaction and operational excellence to support ICAT’s growth and service commitments.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and implement comprehensive airlift strategies aligned with customer needs, operational capabilities, and long-term business goals.
- Oversee the management of air transportation operations, including scheduled carriers, charter services, and strategic aviation partnerships.
- Monitor and analyze operational KPIs to ensure efficiency, compliance, and profitability.
- Lead, hire, and develop a high-performing aviation team to support operational excellence and continuous improvement.
- Coordinate with cross-functional teams to ensure seamless integration of air transportation activities with overall supply chain operations.
- Maintain strong relationships with airline partners, vendors, and clients to optimize capacity, service levels, and cost efficiency.
- Ensure compliance with all relevant aviation regulations, safety standards, and company policies.
- Prepare and manage budgets, forecasts, and financial performance reports related to air transportation activities.
- Serve as ICAT’s senior aviation authority, providing strategic guidance and decision-making support for airlift operations.
- Drive innovation and process improvements to enhance operational performance and customer satisfaction.
Skills And Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Aviation, or a related field; advanced degrees preferred.
- Proven experience in air transportation management, freight forwarding, or logistics leadership roles.
- Strong understanding of aviation regulations, safety standards, and industry best practices.
- Excellent leadership, team management, and interpersonal skills.
- Analytical mindset with the ability to interpret operational data and KPIs to inform strategic decisions.
- Exceptional communication and negotiation skills.
- Ability to develop and maintain strategic partnerships with airline carriers and vendors.
- Proficiency in logistics management software and Microsoft Office Suite.
- Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to adapt to changing operational demands.
ICAT offers a collaborative and innovative work environment committed to professional growth and excellence. Join us to be part of a global team dedicated to delivering exceptional logistics solutions and advancing your career in a dynamic industry.
Requirements
Qualifications & Skill Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree required, advanced degree preferred
- 8+ Years of experience in aviation, air cargo, freight forwarding, or logistics
- 5+ years of leading others
- Deep understanding of global air cargo operations, airline networks, and charter markets
- Strong knowledge of aviation and air cargo regulatory frameworks
- Proven experience managing airline and charter relationships
- Proven commercial, financial, and analytical skills
- Proven track record of building relationships and gaining credibility with customers and vendors
- Proven analytical and problem-solving skills in a logistics environment
- Preferred qualifications & skills include:
- Experience with charter operations, project cargo, or time-critical logistics
- Familiarity with IATA processes, air waybills, and air cargo security programs
- Prior leadership role within a freight forwarder, 3PL, airline cargo division, or aviation services provider
- Aviation-related certifications or formal aviation education
- Intermediate skills with Microsoft Office products
Key Competencies
- Proven ability to lead, mentor and share knowledge with team members
- Ability to plan and effectively set priorities for implementation and meet deadlines
- Excels in meeting deadlines and demonstrates superior time management skills
- Natural ability to multi-task in a fast-paced work setting, strong attention to detail
- Superior communication skills, ability to motivate people and an emphasis on listening skills
- Extremely well organized and detail-oriented; able to handle multiple tasks simultaneously
- Must foster accountability and commitment from the team to achieve department goals
- Ability to relate to and successfully interact across a variety of settings and work well with a broad and diverse workforce throughout the organization
- Proven analytical, problem-solving skills in a logistics environment.
- Ability to work in a time-sensitive environment
- Highly motivated team player with an outgoing and positive work attitude
- Ability to be flexible as priorities shift
- Demonstrated ability to work in a client centric environment
- Consistent in follow-up and follow-through
- Credible with a high level of personal integrity
- Adaptive to ICAT’s core values
Supervisory Responsibilities: Yes
- Direct supervision and accountability of staff
- Support team in setting and achieving goals and performance objectives
- Coach and mentor team members
- Identify department training requirements and conduct training as needed
- Hold regular individual 1x1 and team meetings.
- Clearly communicate department and individual initiatives / goals
- Develop, monitor and review regularly metrics and goals with team members
- Conduct performance appraisals; provide rewards and execute disciplinary actions/ workplace solutions for department staff
- Accountable for recruiting and hiring process for new hire requirements
- Maintain an environment that allows the team to be part of ICAT’s overarching goals and mission
Salary Range: $139,000 - $165,000
