About the Opportunity
Right Now Group is recruiting on behalf of a well-established and growing air cargo and logistics services provider for a General Manager to lead its Manchester operation.
This is a senior leadership position with full responsibility for operational performance, commercial growth, financial results, and regulatory compliance. The role suits a strategic yet hands-on leader with strong experience in air freight or cargo operations and a proven ability to manage complex, time-critical environments.
Key Responsibilities
Leadership & Strategy
- Lead the Manchester branch, setting clear strategic direction aligned with wider UK objectives.
- Build and maintain a high-performance, customer-focused, and safety-led culture.
- Drive continuous improvement across operations, people, and processes.
Commercial Growth
- Develop and execute growth strategies to increase revenue and market share.
- Build strong relationships with freight forwarders, airlines, and key partners.
- Identify new business opportunities and support sales and pricing initiatives.
Operational Excellence
- Oversee daily warehouse, transport, and logistics operations.
- Ensure consistent service quality, accuracy, and on-time performance.
- Monitor and improve operational KPIs and service-level agreements.
Compliance & Risk Management
- Ensure full compliance with aviation security, CAA/IATA regulations, customs, and health & safety requirements.
- Maintain audit readiness and strong quality and security controls.
- Proactively manage operational, financial, and regulatory risks.
Financial & Cost Control
- Full ownership of branch P&L, including budgeting and forecasting.
- Drive profitability through cost control, efficiency, and performance management.
- Track and report financial performance against targets and KPIs.
People Leadership
- Lead, develop, and motivate management and operational teams.
- Set clear expectations and manage performance effectively.
- Promote an inclusive, accountable, and engaged workplace culture.
Skills & Experience Required
- Senior leadership experience within air cargo, freight forwarding, or logistics.
- Strong understanding of import/export processes and airline cargo handling.
- Proven P&L ownership and financial management experience.
- Knowledge of aviation security, CAA/IATA regulations, and customs compliance.
- Excellent leadership, communication, and decision-making skills.
- Existing airline and integrator relationships are advantageous.
- Experience in wholesale air freight or forwarder-focused environments is preferred.
Candidate Profile
- Customer-centric with a strong service mindset
- High levels of integrity and compliance awareness
- Results-driven with clear accountability
- Collaborative and people-focused leader
- Resilient and adaptable in a fast-paced, operational environment
- Committed to continuous improvement and team development
