Global Sector Product Manager
This role drives the development and successful implementation of a highly effective global sector product for DGF AFR. Collaborate with the Global Sector Product Head, Regional Airfreight Head, and Country Product Heads to align the sector product strategy for the region. Take ownership of market and sector knowledge, leading the sub-function for the sector product within DGF. Provide input and lead the implementation of the functional strategy to develop segment strategies and business plans. Enhance the performance of sector and industry management, supporting business growth objectives in accordance with industry and market needs, division strategy, objectives, and Group guidelines and policies. Own operation excellence deliverance by providing guidance to the country and stations teams.
Sector Product Strategy:
- Define sector product strategy in alignment with the overall product strategy, objectives, and policies.
- Drive operational plans, measures, and budgets to achieve defined results for the sector.
- Execute and implement the sector strategy and roadmap in relevant geographies.
- Produce, coach, and develop global win plans for the sector community and opportunities.
Product Development:
- Identify key trends in the industry and collaborate with stakeholders to develop innovative solutions.
- Establish global sector-specific infrastructure and operations together with regional or country teams.
- Establish commercial and operational guidelines and processes to drive product growth & margins.
- Monitor competitor activities, develop segment strategies and business plans for the sector.
- Provide high-level advice within the sector and regions to counterparts globally.
- Stay updated with sector-specific regulations and standards and communicate any changes or updates to relevant teams.
Sector Business Development:
- Serve as the senior point of contact for sector-related customers or shipments within the community.
- Lead, organize, and control highly strategic business activities and product initiatives.
- Support business development, account management, and sales activities for the specific sector.
- Participate in business development opportunities, including QBR and RFQ activities, for the sector.
- Direct the development of marketing plans, determine research priorities, recommend sales channels, and provide direction for product promotion.
Operational Excellence:
- Identify areas for improvement and implement strategies to enhance operational efficiency and effectiveness within the sector.
- Foster a culture of continuous improvement and best practices sharing across the sector and industry management.
- Implement performance metrics and KPIs to monitor and measure operational performance, ensuring alignment with defined goals and objectives.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams to streamline processes, optimize resources, and enhance overall operational performance.
- Identify and mitigate operational risks within the sector, ensuring compliance with industry regulations and standards.
Product Quality & Compliance:
- Develop and implement quality controls and compliance measures to ensure adherence to sector-specific regulations, standards, and guidelines.
- Establish and monitor processes and procedures to ensure product quality and consistency across the sector.
- Conduct regular audits and assessments to identify areas of non-compliance and implement corrective actions.
- Collaborate with internal stakeholders to ensure that sector operations meet all applicable compliance requirements.
- Provide guidance and support to the sector in maintaining a high level of quality and compliance in all operations.
Qualifications & Key Requirements:
- Bachelor's Degree or equivalent
- Minimum of 8 years of experience in forwarding and/or sector-related companies.
- Extensive experience collaborating with global, regional, and country organizations to successfully implement solutions.
- Proven track record of achieving sector growth in terms of revenue and gross profit.
- Ability to navigate and excel in a matrix organization structure.
- In-depth knowledge and experience in freight forwarding and the logistics industry.
- Strong understanding of logistics infrastructure and service providers.
- Expertise in the sector industry, with a deep understanding of its dynamics and operational requirements.
- Demonstrated customer facing sales capabilities and a solid track record in the sector industry.
- Strong project management skills, with the ability to successfully lead and execute projects.
- Excellent knowledge of main markets and local regulations related to sector commodities.
- Fluent in English, with strong communication and language skills.
- Able to lead and manage teams of experts across multiple countries and from multiple cultures.
- Commercial and operational problem-solving mindset.
- Willingness to travel.