Regional Airfreight Sector Product Head, Life Science Healthcare

Role Profile

Airfreight Sector Product Head, Life Science Healthcare

Europe Career Function

Operations

Job Family

AFR

Career Stream / Career Level

Product Management / Regional / Division

Business Division

DGF

Job Purpose

This role drives the development and successful implementation of a highly effective Life Science Healthcare (LSH) sector product strategy for DGF Airfreight in the region, in alignment with the global strategy for LSH. Collaborate with the Global-, Regional- and Country Product Heads and Sales 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 the DGF Region. Provide input and lead the implementation of the functional strategy to develop segment strategies and business plans. Enhance the performance of sector management, supporting business growth objectives in accordance with industry and market needs, division strategy, objectives, and Group guidelines and policies.

Differentiator

• 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.
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in forwarding and/or sector‑related companies.
• Expertise in the sector industry, with a deep understanding of its dynamics.
• Demonstrated sales success 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.

Key Tasks

Sector Product Strategy

• Contribute to the 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 regional 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 regional 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 and region.
• 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 and act as product sponsor.
• Steer 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 for 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, optimise 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 in close alignment with the Quality Product Team.
• Establish and monitor processes and procedures to ensure product quality and consistency across the sector.
• Conduct assessments to identify areas of non‑compliance, implement corrective actions and attend and support internal and external audits where required.
• 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 across all operations.

Stakeholders

• DGF AFR global / regions / country, Sales, SBR, DGF IT Project Team, Customers, Suppliers, Airlines

Management Responsibility

• Develop a comprehensive EBIT growth plan and detailed financial projections for the sector product regionally.
• Oversee regional network capabilities and developments to ensure sector product quality and compliance.
• Collaborate with multiple project teams, promptly communicate resource needs to the Global Sector Product Head and the Regional Airfreight Head.
• Provide indirect management oversight for product members and coaching support.

Skills

• Technical Skills: Deep understanding of relevant sector‑ & industry standards and market trends.
• Communication Skills: Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Analytical Skills: Ability to analyse information and make data‑driven decisions, often applying critical thinking.
• Teamwork and Collaboration: Excellent collaborator and mediator to deliver results.
• Adaptability and Flexibility: Adapt to changing circumstances, handle multiple tasks, and work under pressure.
• Time Management and Organisation: Ability to prioritise tasks, meet deadlines, and operate in a matrix organisation.
• Leadership Skills: Ability to motivate and inspire others, delegate tasks, and provide guidance.