Abel Alemu Yimer
Dubai
Summary
Strategic and results-oriented business leader with 17+ years of experience in strategy, planning and operations. Skilled in developing and executing business plans to maximize profitability, streamline operations and maintain compliance with industry regulations. Proven people leader motivates and optimizes staff performance and productivity.
Overview
13
13
years of professional experience
8
8
years of post-secondary education
Work History
Managing Director
Ascent 360 Aviation & Marketing Consulting
10.2024 - Current
- Conduct in-depth research and analysis of global and regional aviation markets to identify emerging trends, growth opportunities, and competitive threats
- Provide actionable insights to help clients capitalize on market shifts
- Develop long-term strategic plans and roadmaps tailored to the client’s goals, including route optimization, fleet expansion, and market entry strategies
- Analyze and streamline operational processes to reduce costs, improve efficiency, and enhance service delivery
- Focus on areas such as cargo handling, passenger services, and supply chain management
- Guide aviation organizations through transformational changes, such as digitalization, mergers, or restructuring
- Ensure smooth transitions by aligning stakeholders, updating processes, and fostering a culture of innovation
Managing Director
Ethiopian Airlines Group
11.2021 - 09.2024
- Led cargo and logistics business units, achieving significant revenue growth and exceeding annual targets
- Developed and implemented innovative marketing and sales strategies to capture market share and increase profitability
- Oversaw a global network of 60+ freighter stations, ensuring operational excellence and compliance with international standards
- Optimized resource allocation, reduced costs, and improved customer satisfaction
- Managed capital expenditure on fleet acquisition, infrastructure, and technology investments
- Led a diverse team of 1,000+ employees, fostering a high-performance culture through coaching and mentoring
- Successfully led Ethiopian Cargo operations during the COVID-19 pandemic, ensuring the timely transport of critical medical supplies
- Played a pivotal role in developing an e-commerce logistics hub with state-of-the-art technology, enhancing operational efficiency and customer experience
Regional Manager
Ethiopian Airlines Group
09.2015 - 09.2021
- Managed company assets, fiscal policies, and marketing strategies across Southern Africa (South Africa, Lesotho, Swaziland, Namibia, Reunion, Mauritius)
- Implemented and monitored KPIs to drive financial, sales, and operational performance
- Oversaw key departments, including Airport, Cargo, Retail, Sales, and Finance, ensuring operational efficiency and revenue growth
- Led the expansion of airline operations, doubling daily flights to Johannesburg and launching new routes to Cape Town, Durban, Windhoek, and Antananarivo
- Enhanced the airline’s brand equity and market share in the region
- Diversified cargo operations to capitalize on emerging market opportunities
Cargo Manager Gulf
Ethiopian Airlines Group
06.2014 - 08.2015
- Secured and managed freight business from clients in the UAE, Oman, Qatar, and Pakistan
- Led strategic planning and execution of freighter operations, optimizing route networks and maximizing revenue
- Conducted market analysis to identify opportunities and develop targeted business strategies
- Negotiated favorable agreements with suppliers and contractors to optimize costs and improve service delivery
- Successfully transitioned cargo operations from DXB International to Dubai World Central, ensuring minimal disruption
Cargo Sales Manager
Ethiopian Airlines Group
08.2012 - 05.2014
- Developed and implemented sales strategies to drive revenue growth, leading a team of 15 sales professionals
- Conducted performance analysis and prepared annual business plans aligned with corporate strategy
- Represented the airline at industry events, fostering relationships with key stakeholders
- Increased revenue generation and cultivated long-term partnerships with key accounts
Education
Master of Science - Integrated Marketing Management (IMC)
University of Mississippi
United States Of America 11.2019 - 03.2022
Master of Arts - Marketing Management
Addis Ababa University
Ethiopia 10.2009 - 03.2012
Bachelor of Arts - Economics
University of Gondar
Ethiopia 09.2003 - 07.2006
Skills
- Leadership
- Strategic Thinking
- Operational Excellence
- Business Development
- Stakeholder Management
- Change Management
Board Memberships
- Non-Executive Board Director, Zambia Airways (2014) Limited, Lusaka, Zambia, 07/23, 10/24
- Member, International Air Transport Association (IATA) Cargo Advisory Council, Geneva, Switzerland, 09/22, 10/24
- Member, Ethiopian Pharmaceutical Supply Agency, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, 11/21, 12/24
- Member, Board of Representative of Southern Africa (BARSA), Johannesburg, South Africa, 04/17, 09/21
Core Proficiencies
- Leadership & Strategic Thinking: Proven ability to inspire teams, develop long-term strategies, and execute plans to deliver results.
- Operational Excellence: Expertise in optimizing processes, reducing costs, and enhancing efficiency.
- Business Development: Skilled in identifying market opportunities, driving revenue growth, and expanding market share.
- Stakeholder Management: Strong negotiation, communication, and relationship-building skills.
- Change Management: Experienced in leading organizational transformation and fostering a culture of innovation.
Timeline
Managing Director
Ascent 360 Aviation & Marketing Consulting
10.2024 - Current
Managing Director
Ethiopian Airlines Group
11.2021 - 09.2024
Master of Science - Integrated Marketing Management (IMC)
University of Mississippi
11.2019 - 03.2022
Regional Manager
Ethiopian Airlines Group
09.2015 - 09.2021
Cargo Manager Gulf
Ethiopian Airlines Group
06.2014 - 08.2015
Cargo Sales Manager
Ethiopian Airlines Group
08.2012 - 05.2014
Master of Arts - Marketing Management
Addis Ababa University
10.2009 - 03.2012
Bachelor of Arts - Economics
University of Gondar
09.2003 - 07.2006
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