Senior Operations Specialist
Location: UK
Reports to: Operations Manager
About the Role
The Senior Operations Specialist is a key member of the operations team, responsible for leading day-to-day control of time-critical shipments, coordinating global partners, and ensuring flawless execution across air, road, and multimodal movements.
This role requires strong decision-making, rapid problem-solving, and the ability to manage high-value aviation and time-critical cargo with precision.
The position plays an essential part in delivering world-class customer service while supporting business growth, process improvement, and operational excellence.
Key Responsibilities
Operational Control & Execution
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Manage and oversee time-critical shipments
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Coordinate with airlines, handlers, agents, and ground transport partners to ensure seamless end-to-end execution
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Monitor live shipments and proactively resolve delays, risks, and operational issues
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Ensure compliance with aviation security, customs regulations, and other regulatory requirements
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Lead operational escalations during out-of-hours or complex logistics movements
Customer & Stakeholder Communication
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Act as a senior point of contact for key customers, providing real-time updates and proactive communication
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Build strong relationships with suppliers, carriers, and global partners to ensure reliability and performance
Process, Quality & Performance
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Ensure all jobs are executed accurately within internal freight systems (e.g. FMS platforms), including cost control and profitability checks
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Conduct post-shipment reviews to identify improvement opportunities
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Support the development and implementation of SOPs, best practices, and operational workflows
Team Leadership & Support
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Mentor and support junior operations team members with training and daily guidance
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Assist with workload planning and shift coverage
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Lead by example in delivering high service standards, accountability, and operational discipline
Commercial & Cost Control
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Negotiate rates with airlines, suppliers, and logistics partners where required
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Ensure shipments meet margin expectations and profitability targets
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Support the sales function with operational insight for quotes and tenders
Key Skills & Experience
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3–5+ years’ experience in freight forwarding, aviation logistics, AOG or time-critical movements
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Strong understanding of air freight processes, cargo operations, and global logistics
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Ability to perform in fast-paced, high-pressure environments with confident decision-making
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Excellent communication skills with customers and suppliers
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Strong attention to detail and ability to manage multiple live shipments simultaneously
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Experience using freight management systems and MS Office
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Knowledge of customs processes and regulatory frameworks preferred
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Strong problem-solving and escalation management capability
Personal Attributes
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Highly organised, proactive and accountable
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Calm under pressure with strong operational awareness
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Customer-focused with a commitment to service excellence
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Team-oriented with natural leadership qualities
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Flexible with working hours within a 24/7 operational environment
Why Join?
Join a fast-growing organisation within time-critical aviation logistics
Be part of a high-performance team managing complex, global movements
Career development opportunities
A culture built on teamwork, speed, accountability and reliability