Summary
Overview
Work history
Education
Skills
KLM Cargo Training/Certifications
Certification
Education
Timeline
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Arun Almeida

Arun Almeida

Al Ghusais,UAE

Summary

A career in aviation exclusively in Cargo Logistics spanning 31 years across multiple disciplines including Airline Cargo, Cargo General Sales Agency & Ground Handling Cargo Operations of which 15 years 17 plus years in Management cadres.


Have had the opportunity to work in 5 airports across India (Mumbai, Kolkata & Delhi) as well as UAE (Dubai International and Dubai World Central). Also did short stints/deputations across 3 other regional airports (Colombo, Amman & Bahrain).


For the last decade, managing 2 major cargo terminals in DXB International, Import General Cargo Terminal & Dubai Pharma & Perishable Centre (also called the Dubai Flower Centre) comprising of 170 plus insourced and 250 plus outsourced staff. Combined freight volumes of 360k plus metric tons with an AED 60 million cost budget and AED 350 million plus revenue.


Recent significant projects include,

- Roll out of legacy system replacement (DACS with One Cargo).

- Introduction of Appointment & Dock Management Systems for managing landside activities (acceptance / delivery).

- Data driven decision making by use of up to date/relevant dashboards and a PLAN, DO, CHECK, ACT culture.

- IATA Pharma CEIV Recertification for Dubai Flower Centre (DFC).

- Centralised Screening to increase throughput of primary (X-ray) screened cargo (ongoing).

- Enhancement of safety environment using tools/equipment to reduce use of hazardous equipment / unsafe practices.

- Focus on Quality by implementing near real time tracking of Cargo IQ milestones and regular performance reviews/reporting.

- Upgrading skills/capability of frontline supervisory workforce by implementing relevant active supervision training & best practices.

- Regular engagement with authorities including, Dubai Police, Customs, Dubai Municipality, Ministry of Climate Change & Environment, GCAA, Dubai Airports etc. to enhance customer experience.



Overview

30
30
years of professional experience
1
1
year of post-secondary education
1
1
Certification

Work history

Manager Cargo Operations (Imports – DFC & FG5)

dnata
Dubai
07.2023 - 01.2025
  • Due to a reorganization in June 23, was given charge of Freight Gate 5 (General cargo Import Terminal) and Dubai Flower Centre (Perishable & Pharma Terminal) predominantly managing the Import product in DXB

Manager Cargo Operations (Import/Export)

dnata
Dubai
06.2020 - 06.2023
  • Effective 9th June 2020, post right sizing drive in dnata cargo, was given the dual portfolio of managing export general cargo operations over and above the import operation
  • Saw the operations through an extremely difficult phase post redundancy with the challenges of Covid-19 and the resultant drop and subsequent resurgence of volumes
  • Oversaw the implementation of the critical introduction of ADM (Appointments and Dock Management System) Export in October 2020 after successful roll out of Import in December 2019 as part of dnata cargo's transformation journey
  • Managed to reduce our manpower and costs significantly in line with the drastic volume dip (almost 60% in April 2020) and remain profitable contributing to a healthy cargo bottom line at end of 2020/21 financial
  • Sustained this profitability drive and cost control through post covid years of 21-22 & 22-23 as well despite falling short of volume targets in 22-23
  • Awarded Bronze Najm (4-April-2021) in recognition of exceptional dedication and excellence to help organization through pandemic
  • Involved in the implementation and delivery of several projects such as Implementation of ‘One Cargo” System roll out, a replacement of our legacy DACS system for cargo handling
  • Oversaw the pilot of a product for 100% volume scanning of export freight including a build up optimization tool
  • ULD Enhancement Project to improve overall ULD tracking with DXB and DWC airports
  • Reviewing BLE (Bluetooth low energy) technology for ULD tagging and tracking
  • Implementation of 100% weight checks at export acceptance
  • Centralised Screening – Enhancing screening throughput capacity
  • Improving Appointment & Dock Management System OTP performance for both export acceptance and import delivery

Manager Cargo Operations – Import

dnata
Dubai
04.2015 - 05.2020
  • Managed the general cargo product (import/export) independently for 8 months from April 16 till November 15 until the recruitment of my export counterpart
  • Was part of a core project team which successfully delivered the Impex project (segregation of import and export product/terminals) and was awarded Silver Najm
  • Oversaw implementation of key projects i.e
  • Launch of new HHD's, elimination of Delivery Slip, MHS upgrades, Appointment and Dock Management systems (Import), Business Process Review for One Cargo etc
  • All important milestones in the Cargo Transformation Journey
  • Successfully implemented the operations of the new Cargoflex Product and managed the growth from zero to 15% of the total import delivery product
  • Was part of a core working group representing Cargo which delivered the successful implementation of the Data Driven Performance Review (DDPR) model now in its second year of running
  • Successfully implemented the Green Belt Projects with respect to import plastic reuse in exports resulting in annual saving of AED 240k and reduced waste going to landfills
  • Have met and sometimes exceeded all Safety, Financial, HR, & Operations KPI's for the last 5 years in this role
  • Delivered cost savings of 1.8 million AED in outsourced manpower costs through effective rostering

Terminal Services Manager – FreightGate 8/9

dnata
Dubai
04.2010 - 03.2015
  • Successfully managed the setup, testing, commissioning and inauguration of the then newest cargo terminal at Dubai's secondary airport (DWC)
  • Conceptualised and adopted the “One dnata” spirit in cooperation with ramp colleagues long before its official launch resulting in cross utilisation of resources and better efficiencies
  • Initiated the “One Approach” meetings with all DWC stakeholders addressing setup requirements and streamlining processes and operations in line with international standards while meeting safety and security requirements
  • Conducted a multitude of guided tours and presentations of DWC airport and FreightGate 8 cargo terminal for prospective customers including VIP and Political Delegations, Airlines, Freight Forwarders, Shippers and Government Agencies
  • Implemented cross functional training across all cargo shifts which enabled a small team of highly motivated individuals to deliver competent and quality service to our customers in spite of severe resource and equipment challenges
  • Thus successfully managed entire cargo terminal operations including ULD management and Cargo Transportation activity prior to the dedicated ULD/CTT departments being set up
  • The fact that our core team staff who were part of the pre Jan 2014 FG8 team are much sought after for leave/training replacements across all FG8 areas is testimony to this
  • Consistently achieved triple digit growth in volume in the first 3 years while single handedly managing the cargo terminal operations
  • Part of the core team comprising of dnata, Dubai Airports, DWC, DP World, Customs & Police which was responsible for the successful launch and execution of US Military Multimodal business at DWC in April 2012
  • In February 2012, set-up the new service product of Quarantine Washing in concert with the US Military Multimodal contractors, GSE/Ramp team, US Military liaison, US Customs Border Control Agency (CBCA) Dubai Airports & Environment Health Services (EHS – part of Ports and Free Zone Corporation Jebel Ali Free Zone)
  • Set up the initial tariff & marketed this product which has now become part of the standard service offering extended to all military (NATO & ISAF including US, Australian, Danish and Swedish Defence) members generating revenues in excess of AED 17 million to date
  • Set up the unique 24/7 product offering (including tariff) of a 50 ton capacity crane and low bed / flat-bed trailer with airside access giving DWC the status of the first airport in the Middle East region (and probably beyond) to offer this facility for the benefit of its military/charter customers
  • Sourced, procured and implemented the Intercomp-PT300DW mobile weigh scale solution overcoming the limitation of the fixed drive on weigh scale both in terms of capacity and portability which was extremely beneficial to the military retrograde reweighing requirement (generated additional revenue in excess of AED 2.25million from January 2012 to date)
  • This has also assisted with weighing of outsized export loads which our fixed scales are unable to accomplish
  • 1st June 2012 and 5th June 2012 were red letter days for DWC as FG8 created a record of sorts in handling 4 back to back 747 full freighter charters both in the inbound and outbound sectors for the Madonna concert in Yas Island, Abu Dhabi
  • Awarded a Certificate of Appreciation for the period January 2013 to September 2013 from the US Military in recognition of “outstanding dedication and continuous commitment contributing to the success of the multimodal operation”
  • Was part of a successful Project Team (Import Export Project) which engineered and proposed the route map for the change in current Landside/Airside model to Import/Export model designed to simply end to end processes while enhancing customer experience
  • Currently involved in the ongoing FG9 Project to enhance facilities for smooth handling of military/charter business

Terminal Services Manager – FreightGate 7

dnata
Jebel Ali Free Zone
05.2006 - 12.2010
  • Project profiled JAFZ as a gateway for air cargo movements and set up of the first “Off Airport Cargo Terminal” from conceptualization to effective running of the terminal
  • Extended the window of operation by introducing a staggered shift which benefited both airlines and agents/shippers with longer working hours
  • Achieved phenomenal success of volume (triple digit) and revenue growth from initial 300 tons to 2500 tons per month by actively promoting “ZJF” as a network origin/destination to carriers and JAFZA forwarding community
  • Successfully introduced door pick up service with JAFZ for full truck loads bypassing handling at FG7 thereby increasing efficiency
  • Streamlined the Free Zone exit registration process which dnata undertook with Customs on behalf of its export customers minimising discrepancies and resulting in better document control
  • Successfully managed closure of terminal and transfer of staff, equipment and business to the then newly opened FreightGate 8 terminal in DWC

Cargo Operations Duty Manager

dnata
11.2005 - 04.2006
  • Gained deeper insight into the entire gamut of cargo terminal operations covering Cargo Village (FG1), Express & Mail Centre (EMC/FG2), and the Free Zone Logistics Centre (FLC/FG3)

Cargo Sales Manager (dnata Cargo Partners)

dnata
04.2003 - 10.2005
  • Streamlined entire customer database creating mailing lists with regular circulation of Principal Carriers tariffs/schedules to 1000 plus customers increasing market awareness/presence
  • Developed & enhanced departmental MIS to include daily sales reports giving management/Cargo Partners team visibility of performance at carrier/agent/destination/commodity levels thus enabling informed decision making and sales strategies
  • Developed and implemented strategies for mark-ups on net rates significantly increasing departmental income over and above the normal GSA sales and overriding commissions
  • Significant positive impact on bottom-line particularly with regards to Air Astana and Air India
  • Awarded a Bronze Mabrouk award for providing excellent customer service support & ensuring generation of additional revenue to Cargo Partners
  • Partnered with PD/HR and Manager Cargo Partners to restructure CP organization introducing the Senior Sales Executive – Cargo Partners and Tele-Sales agent roles creating teams to further expand market reach and focused airline sales (to meet the customized requirements of principal carriers and offer unique/dedicated solutions while using pooled resources)
  • Involved creation and vetting of Job Description

Manager Customer Service

KLM Royal Dutch Airlines (Cargo Division)
New Delhi, India
09.1999 - 04.2003
  • Company Overview: The world's first airline has been a pioneer of many trends in the aviation industry and the airfreight division in particular
  • With quality levels adhering to the best standards in the industry (ISO, EFQM, JAR-OPS to name a few), customers now take for granted KLMs' impeccable service which is also a benchmark for many
  • Training, Development & Coaching of Customer Service Team members in line with applicable job requirements to meet departmental objectives ensuring quality at target levels
  • Implement and organise processes and procedures within agreed policies
  • Satisfying customer information requirements (both internal and external customers) and controlling the flow of information to ensure adequate communication with and on behalf of customers
  • Provide inputs in business analysis systems in order to assist in creation and maintenance of customer database
  • Take and process orders for defined service elements, and execute related administration according to procedures
  • Overseeing claims and complaint handling procedures offering clients appropriate service and solutions to minimise the impact of non-quality and service failures
  • Provision of general support services on a local level in a shopkeeper role and on behalf of other departments
  • General Administration and maintenance of office and equipment, annual maintenance contracts
  • Support Regional Accounting Head-Office in administration of accounts
  • Cost Budgeting
  • Ensuring same with budget
  • Local Site Coordinator on behalf of Head Office for IT processes and procedures
  • Performance reviews of team, rating of and setting targets/goal in concert with Management and respective team members
  • Liaison for KLM Cargo's Airmail Services Division in India (servicing the Dept
  • Of Posts out of Delhi, Mumbai & Kolkata)
  • Bottom line responsible for capacity control and planning
  • Coordinating pipe lining activities within the region to maximize load factors
  • The world's first airline has been a pioneer of many trends in the aviation industry and the airfreight division in particular
  • With quality levels adhering to the best standards in the industry (ISO, EFQM, JAR-OPS to name a few), customers now take for granted KLMs' impeccable service which is also a benchmark for many

Customer Service Executive

KLM Royal Dutch Airlines (Cargo Division)
Mumbai
01.1997 - 08.1999
  • Maintaining relationships and rapport with existing customer base with emphasis on provided best in class service
  • Information brokerage
  • Order taking and execution
  • Reporting of lost business opportunities/sales
  • Exception reporting and handling of irregularities, complaints and claims
  • Performing margin checks in line with Short-Term Profit Management objectives using available tools
  • Monitoring performance of Contracted Customers on a monthly basis and providing information to management for relevant adjustments of Contracts

Supervisor Customer Service

KLM Royal Dutch Airlines (Cargo Division)
Kolkata
01.1995 - 12.1996
  • Being a relatively small station, was exposed to the whole gamut of commercial, operational, customer service, sales and accounting activities
  • Due once weekly service, offline selling activities and feeder cargo formed an important chunk of business opportunity

Education

Trainee - cargo handling for 747 Combi series

SWISSAIR CARGO
01.1994 - 12.1994

Skills

  • Client Relationship Management
  • Customer engagement
  • Performance monitoring
  • Crisis handling
  • Active listening
  • Communication proficiency
  • Process Improvement / Optimisation
  • Budgeting and financial analysis
  • Staff recruitment
  • Risk Management
  • Project Management
  • Commercial Awareness
  • Leadership skills
  • Mentoring and coaching

KLM Cargo Training/Certifications

  • Show the World, 11/14/96, Dubai
  • Customized Cargoal Workshop, 02/24/97, Amsterdam
  • ISO Quality Workshop, 11/15/97, Mumbai
  • Online Training (Pilot), 01/13/98, Amsterdam
  • Personality Development, 09/28/98, Amsterdam
  • Service Recovery Workshop, 11/20/98, Amsterdam
  • SPM (Products and Contracts), 03/30/99, Johannesburg
  • Advanced Service Skills, 05/22/00, Amsterdam
  • Commercial Skills Pilot, 10/18/01, Amsterdam

Certification

IATA PHARMA CEIV COURSES (Instructor Led) -

1) Audit, Quality and Risk Management for Temperature Controlled Cargo (19th Jan 2024)

2) Temperature Controlled Cargo Operations (22nd Dec 2023)


dnata Learning & Development

1) Cargo IQ Advance Training (Instructor Led)

2) Environment Awareness Training (Online)

3) Data Privacy Basics (Online)

4) Cargo Safety Awareness (Online)

5) dnata Airport Operations Safety (Online)

6) Lean Leadership (Online)

7) Aviation Security for Senior Grades (Online)

8) Leadership Development (Multiple Topics - Instructor Led)




Education

Bachelor of Science - Mumbai University May 1989 (B.Sc. Statistics)

Timeline

Manager Cargo Operations (Imports – DFC & FG5)

dnata
07.2023 - 01.2025

Manager Cargo Operations (Import/Export)

dnata
06.2020 - 06.2023

Manager Cargo Operations – Import

dnata
04.2015 - 05.2020

Terminal Services Manager – FreightGate 8/9

dnata
04.2010 - 03.2015

Terminal Services Manager – FreightGate 7

dnata
05.2006 - 12.2010

Cargo Operations Duty Manager

dnata
11.2005 - 04.2006

Cargo Sales Manager (dnata Cargo Partners)

dnata
04.2003 - 10.2005

Manager Customer Service

KLM Royal Dutch Airlines (Cargo Division)
09.1999 - 04.2003

Customer Service Executive

KLM Royal Dutch Airlines (Cargo Division)
01.1997 - 08.1999

Supervisor Customer Service

KLM Royal Dutch Airlines (Cargo Division)
01.1995 - 12.1996

Trainee - cargo handling for 747 Combi series

SWISSAIR CARGO
01.1994 - 12.1994

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Arun Almeida