JOB PURPOSE

The Director - Cargo & Airfield Development provides strategic and commercial leadership for the growth, positioning and long-term development of Bahrain International Airport’s (BIA) cargo, logistics, and airfield capabilities. The role is responsible for promoting BIA to airlines, freight forwarders, logistics providers and trade stakeholders, with a strong focus on expanding international and GCC airfreight, road feeder services offering an integrated logistics activity through the airport.

The role leads to the development and execution of the Cargo and Logistics Strategy, underpinned by robust market research, trade flow analysis, freight lane dynamics and product mix optimization. It is accountable for driving sustainable cargo growth by strengthening existing cargo and logistics operations, attracting new freighter, airline belly hold capacity and developing value added cargo products such as express, perishables, oversized and special handling freight.

In parallel, the role provides executive oversight of cargo related infrastructure and airfield development to ensure capacity, operational efficiency and safety standards are aligned with current and future demand.

Key Responsibilities

Cargo Strategy & Commercial Development

• Develop and deliver Bahrain International Airports Cargo and Logistics strategy by positioning the airport as a competitive regional logistics hub.

• Drive cargo growth in key segments such as freight, express logistics, e-commerce, perishables, and pharmaceuticals.

• Lead engagement with cargo airlines & operators, integrators, freight forwarders and logistics partners.

• Oversee the planning and execution of infrastructure projects related to cargo handling facilities, airfield enhancements, and ground support operations.

Cargo Infrastructure & Asset Development

• Oversee planning, development and optimization of cargo terminals, warehouses, logistics zones and support facilities.

• Ensure cargo infrastructure investments align with demand forecasts, market trends, and stakeholder needs.

• Maximize the commercial returns through effective allocation and use of cargo assets.

Airfield Development & Capacity Planning

• Lead the planning and delivery of airfield commercial development initiatives that support revenue growth.

• Ensure that commercial airfield assets meet current and future operational and business requirements.

• Ensure cargo and airfield development projects adhere to budgets, timelines, and expected return on investment.

Cargo Performance

• Develop BAC capabilities to assess cargo revenue performance and embed a data-driven culture that informs strategic business cases and investment decisions

• Ensure cargo and airfield development projects adhere to budgets, timelines, and expected return on investment.

Governance & Stakeholder Management

• Ensure full compliance with aviation safety, security and regulatory requirements related to cargo and airfield operations.

• Build strong partnerships with airlines, cargo handlers, developers, and logistics providers.

• Provide strategic input to executive leadership on capacity, growth, and infrastructure priorities.

Education / Qualifications

• A bachelor’s degree in logistics, business development, or related discipline.

• Preferred: Master’s Degree Holder.

• PMP Certification.

Experience

• Minimum of 15 year’s relative commercial experience - required to have 5-7 years of cargo experience.

• Preferred: Background in the Air Cargo/Express or Logistics industry