Airfreight Manager
Röhlig-Grindrod
Sandton, Gauteng (Linbro Park)
Permanent | Posted: 29 April 2026 | Closing Date: 29 May 2026
Role Overview
Röhlig-Grindrod is seeking a highly experienced and dynamic Airfreight Manager to lead and oversee airfreight operations within its Johannesburg branch based in Linbro Park. This is a senior operational role within the Air Freight division, focused on managing end-to-end air cargo movement, team leadership, financial control, and customer service excellence within a fast-paced logistics environment.
The successful candidate will be responsible for ensuring efficient freight forwarding operations, maintaining compliance with international trade regulations, and driving performance across the airfreight department while supporting business growth and operational efficiency.
Key Responsibilities
Airfreight Operations Management
- Oversee the full airfreight cargo movement process from origin to destination
- Ensure efficient coordination of imports, exports, and related logistics processes
- Manage operational workflows including cargo handling, documentation, and scheduling
- Supervise drawing, degrouping, and driver coordination functions
- Ensure adherence to international freight forwarding standards and procedures
Team Leadership & Supervision
- Manage and oversee the Imports Team and Estimators
- Provide leadership, coaching, and mentoring to staff members
- Ensure performance targets are met across operational teams
- Drive staff development, accountability, and productivity
- Manage change and resolve internal team conflicts effectively
Financial & Commercial Management
- Manage creditors disbursements and debtor invoicing processes
- Oversee pricing, rate structures, and service charges
- Ensure accurate tariff calculations and financial documentation
- Support import sales and customer servicing activities
- Maintain financial discipline and cost control within the department
Compliance & Documentation
- Ensure compliance with all applicable freight forwarding regulations
- Apply knowledge of INCOTERMS and international trade principles
- Ensure adherence to customs clearance procedures and statutory requirements
- Manage cargo documentation, clearance processes, and transport compliance
- Comply with internal quality management systems and procedures
Customer Service & Business Development
- Maintain strong relationships with clients in a high-demand environment
- Handle customer queries and service requirements effectively
- Support sales initiatives within the airfreight division
- Ensure high service delivery standards and client satisfaction
Planning & Operational Control
- Plan, organise, and coordinate daily airfreight operations
- Monitor shipment flow, schedules, and delivery timelines
- Ensure efficient use of transport modes and carrier selection
- Manage operational risks and implement corrective actions when needed
Minimum Requirements
- Grade 12 / Matric certificate (essential)
- 3-year freight forwarding qualification at NQF Level 6 (essential)
- Minimum 7 years’ airfreight operational experience in freight forwarding
- At least 3 years’ experience in a supervisory or managerial capacity
- Strong knowledge of international trade and logistics processes
Technical Knowledge Required
- INCOTERMS and international trade principles
- Airfreight transport modalities and carrier conditions
- Import and export control regulations
- Customs clearance procedures and documentation flow
- Freight forwarding systems (e.g., ShipShape or similar platforms)
- Tariff structures, currency systems, and rate calculations
- Knowledge of statutory cargo handling requirements
- Commercial and operational freight documentation
Key Competencies
- Strong leadership and team management skills
- Excellent communication (written and verbal)
- Strong financial and administrative capability
- Analytical and problem-solving mindset
- High level of integrity and accountability
- Ability to work under pressure and meet strict deadlines
- Strong planning, organising, and time management skills
- Customer-focused and results-driven approach
- Ability to work independently and take initiative
Personal Attributes
- Proactive and self-driven
- Strong decision-making ability
- Assertive but diplomatic in stakeholder engagement
- Highly organised and detail-oriented
- Adaptable to changing operational demands
- Strong mentoring and coaching capability
Role Environment
This is a high-pressure logistics environment where timing, accuracy, and compliance are critical. The Airfreight Manager must be able to manage multiple operational streams simultaneously while ensuring service excellence and regulatory compliance.
The role requires strong coordination between internal departments, external service providers, customs authorities, and international partners.
Final Note
This position is suited for an experienced logistics professional who is confident in managing complex airfreight operations and leading teams in a demanding global supply chain environment. Success in this role depends on strong operational control, financial discipline, and the ability to deliver consistent service excellence in a time-sensitive industry.
