General Manager GSA - Cargo Commercial

Location: Auckland, New Zealand

About Us

We are part of a well-established international aviation services group with a strong presence across multiple global markets. As part of our continued expansion strategy, we are seeking an experienced and commercially driven General Manager to lead and develop our New Zealand & later Australia / Pacific operation.

The business represents and supports international airlines within the air cargo industry and is committed to delivering exceptional commercial, operational, and customer service outcomes. With significant growth plans over the next 2 years planed, this is an exciting opportunity for a senior aviation professional to build and expand a successful business within the Oceania region.

The Role

The General Manager will be responsible for the overall management and development of the Ne Zealand operation, with a primary focus on airline cargo representation, business development, customer engagement, operational oversight, and financial performance.

The successful candidate will possess strong knowledge of the Auckland and New Zealand air cargo market and ability to build a strong team, existing industry relationships, and a proven track record within a Cargo GSA, airline cargo, freight forwarding, or aviation services environment.

Key ResponsibilitiesCommercial & Business Development

• Develop and execute strategic sales plans to grow cargo revenues across New Zealand.
• Identify and secure new airline representation opportunities.
• Maintain and strengthen relationships with freight forwarders, key accounts, integrators, and logistics providers.
• Drive market share growth and revenue performance across assigned airline portfolios.
• Prepare and present business reviews, market analysis, and growth strategies to senior management and airline principals.

Airline & Customer Management

• Act as the primary point of contact for airline partners represented within New Zealand.
• Ensure all airline service standards, KPIs, and commercial objectives are achieved.
• Build strong relationships with local and international airline stakeholders.
• Support customer visits, airline audits, and business development initiatives.

Operational Oversight

• Ensure smooth day-to-day cargo operations and service delivery.
• Work closely with ground handlers, trucking providers, freight forwarders, and airport stakeholders.
• Monitor operational performance, service failures, and corrective action plans.
• Ensure compliance with airline procedures, security requirements, and regulatory standards.

Financial & Administrative Management

• Manage budgets, forecasting, profitability, and cost control.
• Oversee local contracts, supplier agreements, and commercial negotiations.
• Support the establishment and growth of the New Zealand business.
• Ensure accurate reporting and compliance with company policies and regulatory requirements.

Leadership & Team Management

• Recruit, mentor, and develop local staff as the business grows.
• Foster a high-performance culture focused on accountability, customer service, and results.
• Provide leadership and guidance across commercial and operational functions.

Skills & ExperienceEssential

• Minimum 7–10 years' experience within airline cargo, Cargo GSA, freight forwarding, or aviation services.
• Strong knowledge of the Auckland and New Zealand air cargo market.
• Established network of industry contacts across airlines, freight forwarders, and logistics providers.
• Proven track record in sales, business development, and customer relationship management.
• Strong commercial acumen and financial understanding.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and presentation skills.
• Ability to work independently and lead business growth initiatives.
• Experience managing airline cargo representation portfolios.
• Knowledge of airline cargo systems and processes.
• Experience dealing with international airline principals and regional management teams.

What We Offer

• Opportunity to lead and grow a New Zealand operation within a respected international aviation services group.
• Competitive salary package with performance incentives.
• Long-term career development opportunities.
• Exposure to leading international airline partners.
• A dynamic and entrepreneurial environment with significant growth potential.

If you are a commercially focused aviation professional with strong Cargo GSA or airline cargo experience and a passion for building successful partnerships, we would welcome your application.

Pay: $175,000.00 – $250,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Employee discount
• Travel reimbursement
• Work from home

Work Location: In person