Group Air Freight Procurement Manager

About the role

We are seeking an experienced and commercially driven Group Air Freight Procurement Manager to lead the development and execution of a global air freight procurement and carrier strategy for an established international logistics business specialising in aviation and aerospace. The role is based in West Drayton and will report to senior leadership, overseeing a multi‑regional team. You will shape carrier relationships, negotiate rates and ensure service reliability across key trade lanes.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and implement a global air freight procurement strategy aligned with commercial and operational objectives.
• Establish and manage a preferred carrier network across key international trade lanes, consolidating volumes to strengthen negotiating power.
• Introduce consistent procurement processes, governance and best practices across international locations.
• Build senior‑level relationships with global airlines, cargo sales organisations and specialist freight providers; lead negotiations on rates, capacity, rebates and service agreements.
• Work with regional teams to forecast capacity requirements, secure airline allocations and identify opportunities to improve buying rates and gross profit.
• Provide procurement expertise for major customer tenders, RFQs and new business opportunities, collaborating with sales and pricing teams.
• Develop procurement solutions for Aircraft on Ground (AOG), time‑critical and specialist aerospace shipments, including charter and premium freight options.
• Monitor global air freight market trends, airline capacity, rate movements and ensure compliance with aviation security, dangerous goods and regulatory requirements.

Required profile

• 10+ years’ experience within air freight, freight forwarding, airline procurement or a related discipline.
• At least 5 years in a senior procurement, air freight product or carrier management role with multi‑regional responsibility.
• Proven experience negotiating airline rates, capacity agreements, allocations, rebates and strategic commercial contracts.
• Strong knowledge of international air freight markets, airline networks, trade lanes and pricing structures.