Dennis Demtröder, CEO, PalNet GmbH Air Cargo Products
For Dennis Demtröder, CEO of PalNet GmbH Air Cargo Products, aviation was always more than just an industry—it was part of his DNA. Growing up watching his father build a company from the ground up, he developed an early fascination with air cargo. But the path to leadership wasn’t always straight. In fact, it started in the dirt—literally.
“I began my career as a landscaping gardener,” Dennis recalls with a chuckle. “It was my first job and my passion, but life had other plans. Transitioning from gardening to an industry clerk position in aviation was a complete 180. Learning the business processes, regulations, and technical side of the industry was tough. But I embraced it, studied hard, and learned from experienced colleagues.”
That adaptability would serve him well throughout his career, especially when he packed his bags for the UK to work on repairing Unit Load Devices (ULDs). “Oh my good,” he laughs, “that was a change! New country, new culture, new challenges. But I stayed positive, leaned on my team, and focused on mastering the craft.”
Leading PalNet meant taking on bigger challenges, like restructuring the company to a team-based model. “It wasn’t easy,” Dennis admits. “Changing an organization’s structure comes with resistance, but I believed in the power of collaboration. By fostering trust, encouraging open communication, and setting clear goals, we turned things around. And the results? A stronger, more efficient company.”
Despite the high demands of his role, Dennis makes sure to maintain a work-life balance. His secret? Staying active and reconnecting with nature.
“I cycle to work as much as I can,” he says. “It’s not just exercise—it’s a way to clear my head before and after a busy day. And gardening? That’s still a big part of my life. There’s something incredibly rewarding about watching plants grow. It’s a great contrast to the fast-paced aviation world.”
His downtime is filled with adventure. “Mountain biking gives me that adrenaline rush, while camping lets me disconnect from technology and enjoy life’s simpler pleasures. But above all, spending time with my daughter is non-negotiable. Whether we’re playing, talking, or just hanging out, those moments remind me of what truly matters.”
Dennis’ passion for travel extends beyond business trips. If he had to pick a favorite destination? “New Zealand—hands down. The landscapes, the mountains, the beaches—it’s breathtaking. And the culture embraces adventure. I’d love to explore Chile’s national parks next. From the Atacama Desert to Patagonia’s glaciers, it’s a dream trip.”
When it comes to food, he enjoys the bold flavors of vegan Indian cuisine. “Chana masala, dal, aloo gobi—the spices and textures make every meal an experience.”
Surprisingly, Dennis’ biggest role models aren’t industry titans but primitive peoples. “Their way of life fascinates me. Their deep connection to nature, resourcefulness, and ability to live sustainably—it’s something we can all learn from. They remind us to slow down, respect the environment, and appreciate the basics.”
As for the next generation entering the air cargo and logistics industry, Dennis has some advice: “Stay open to change but respect experience. Learn from those who have seen the industry evolve. Build strong relationships, commit to sustainability, and never stop learning. This is a dynamic field, and balancing innovation with wisdom will set you up for success.”
For a man who started in the soil and ended up in the skies, Dennis Demtröder’s journey is a testament to adaptability, passion, and the belief that every challenge is just another step toward growth.
For Gerard ter Bruggen, working in the aviation industry is inevitable. It was the only career path he saw. For him, it’s not just a job. It’s a passion that kept him going for over 45 years.
“It’s been a wonderful ride, and I still enjoy it every day,” says Gerard, now the Business Development Director at Strike Aviation Group. His enthusiasm still palpable and ready to soar.
But his journey, much like his career, has been anything but ordinary. His aviation story began in 1979 when he started at Martinair Holland N.V. as a Traffic Officer, managing the arrival of cargo by truck and overseeing the buildup of aircraft pallets in a DC10F aircraft. “Back then, Martinair was flying all over the world, with large DC10F aircraft,” Gerard recalls. It was his first taste of the aviation world, and he was hooked.
Fast forward to 1982, and Gerard found himself at Pan Am, working with the iconic Boeing 747 freighter. “It was the first time the world had seen such a massive aircraft,” Gerard remembers fondly. It wasn’t long before his talents were spotted, and he was promoted to the sales and marketing department. His responsibilities took him across BENELUX and Scandinavia, giving him a wealth of international experience that would serve him well in the years to come.
After stints at various companies, Gerard’s career took another turn in 2000 when he joined Dragonair Cargo, playing a key role in setting up operations across Europe and helping the company establish itself as a formidable force in the air freight industry. Dragonair’s eventual acquisition by Cathay Pacific didn’t slow Gerard down-he continued to thrive in the fast-paced world of air cargo.
His career continued to soar with Qatar Airways when in 2010, he was appointed Director for Europe. He went on to lead Cargolux Airlines International in Europe from 2015 to 2022, streamlining operations and developing niche markets like the horse business, a particularly complex but rewarding segment of air cargo.
In 2023, the opportunity to join Strike Aviation presented itself.
Frank Ziesemer, Strike Aviation owner, asked Gerard to bring his years of experience and passion to the company. “It felt like the perfect fit,” Gerard says. “Now, I get to help expand Strike Aviation globally with a fantastic team of experts.”
But while Gerard’s career has been marked by impressive achievements, it’s the challenges that have kept him engaged. The world of air freight is nothing if not unpredictable, and Gerard has seen it all-the market’s seasonality, the impact of global events like the COVID-19 pandemic, and the strikes that can disrupt cargo operations. He likens the ability to adapt to these challenges to that of a chameleon. “You have to change your approach when the market needs you to,” he says. “It’s all about being creative and innovative to stay ahead.”
Despite the high-pressure demands of his job, Gerard is a firm believer in maintaining a healthy work-life balance. He credits his wife, a flight attendant, for providing a solid grounding in balancing work with home life. “We never run out of things to talk about-planes, airports, destinations. Even our kids are involved in logistics, so there’s always a new topic to discuss.”
Outside of work, Gerard keeps active with football, tennis, and golf. He’s also a regular at the pub with friends, where they enjoy a Heineken and talk about life’s latest happenings. “It’s a nice way to relax and unwind after a busy week,” he says. And as a football fan, he often makes time to watch matches live, giving him a chance to step back and enjoy the simpler things in life.
Gerard also has a love for food, particularly Indonesian cuisine, and can often be found enjoying a traditional Dutch “rice table,” which pairs perfectly with a nice Heineken or a glass of Sauvignon Blanc.
For now, his globe-trotting career continues, bringing him to every corner of the world, including Dubai, his favorite place to visit.
Simon Watson, the visionary Founder and CEO of Aerios, has combined his lifelong love for aviation with a knack for software innovation to revolutionize the air cargo industry.
A physics graduate with over 5,000 hours of flight experience, his early career in aviation saw him flying the A320 series aircraft, while his interest in technology led to experimenting with software development during university – Aerios is the culmination of Simon’s expertise in these two fields.
For Simon, Aerios is the realization of a lifelong dream to merge two distinct passions—aviation and technology. Reflecting on his journey, he recalls: “My passion for aviation began in childhood, and I was fortunate to make it a reality as a commercial pilot. But during university, I also fell in love with coding. Starting Aerios felt like a natural evolution, combining these interests to create something impactful.”
Aerios emerged at a critical juncture for air cargo, a sector often perceived as lagging in digital transformation. Simon describes this challenge as an opportunity: “By 2050, people will look back at the 2020s as the era when industries embraced digital technologies. Air cargo is uniquely positioned for innovation, with its complexity spanning logistics, security, global regulations, and e-commerce demands.”
The intricate web of air cargo logistics is both Simon’s challenge and inspiration. Leading Aerios requires balancing the demands of aviation, software, and logistics—a trifecta that presents its own set of hurdles. “Challenges are inevitable,” he shares. “It’s a bit like flying—you plan meticulously, but the unexpected happens. What matters is focusing on what’s within your control and remaining calm under pressure.”
Simon’s approach to overcoming obstacles reflects his growth as a leader. Early in his career, he grappled with the stress of uncontrollable factors. Over time, he learned to embrace failure as part of the journey. “Failure is inevitable, but it’s how quickly you recover and learn that defines your success,” he explains.
At Aerios, creating a balanced work culture is paramount. Despite the demands of running a fast-paced company, Simon prioritizes personal connections and team engagement. “Remote work offers flexibility, but in-person interactions build trust and collaboration,” he notes. “Finding the right balance is key.”
For Simon, maintaining a work-life balance is both a challenge and a priority. “Running your own company requires passion and commitment, but it’s crucial to set boundaries,” he admits. Living in the countryside near London, Simon finds solace in nature, often taking long walks to recharge. “Being outdoors helps me clear my mind and return to work with fresh energy.”
When time allows, Simon indulges in scuba diving and skiing, with St. Lucia being a favorite destination for its vibrant marine life and tranquil beauty. These activities offer him a chance to disconnect and gain perspective, reinforcing his belief in the importance of self-care.
Simon’s leadership philosophy is grounded in clarity, communication, and empathy. He believes a great leader not only envisions the future but also inspires their team to share that vision. “A strong leader understands the goals and motivations of their team members and nurtures their strengths,” he explains. Compassion, for Simon, is as essential as strategic thinking.
Looking ahead, Simon is optimistic about the potential of air cargo to evolve and thrive. He sees the sector as a fertile ground for problem-solvers and innovators. “This isn’t an easy industry, but that’s what makes it rewarding. If you’re someone who thrives on challenges and wants to make a tangible impact, air cargo is the place to be.”
From the cockpit of an A320 to the helm of Aerios, Simon has transformed his dreams into a reality that inspires others.
Through innovation, resilience, and a commitment to fostering talent, Simon is surely paving the way for a brighter future in air cargo logistics—one where technology and human ingenuity work in harmony to achieve remarkable results.
The Paris-based GSSA industry global leader ECS Group surprised many in October with the appointment of Jean Ceccaldi as the Group’s new CEO.
Ceccaldi has the complete backing of the Group’s Executive Chairman Adrien Thominet who described him as the right man for the job.
“With Jean at the helm of this transformation, I am confident that ECS Group will continue to innovate and strengthen its leadership position. Our commitment to agility, sustainability, and technology will ensure we remain the trusted partner of choice for airlines and freight forwarders. Together, we are preparing ECS Group for the future and positioning ourselves to meet the challenges ahead,” Thominet said in a statement.
Ceccaldi, after all, has proven his worth, working for more that 30 years at ECS Group wearing different hats. He was the Managing Director of Aero Cargo France, ECS Group’s top-performing subsidiary prior to his appointment as the Group’s CEO.
Under his leadership, ECS Group is bound to see transformation with technology at the heart of its operations.
“I am fully committed to enhancing our technological capabilities while fostering stronger relationships with our teams and our clients. I look forward to leading this transformation in close collaboration with all MDs and key stakeholders,” said Ceccaldi.
With great interpersonal skills, Ceccaldi said his main motivation in joining the aviation industry is the way it connects people. “The main motivation remains the interaction with people. I enjoy the industry because it still allows us to connect with real individuals and provides opportunities to meet in person.”
A dynamic industry, aviation continues to evolve, something that excites Ceccaldi. “Moreover, I am increasingly convinced by the changes happening within our industry, and I am pleased to be part of this transformation. We are already witnessing, and will continue to see in the near future, these changes through the growing use of digital tools that support us,” he said.
“The challenges in our industry are numerous, and I am convinced that the only way to overcome them is by staying very close to the market and our customers, ensuring awareness and maintaining the confidence of our principals. Beyond that, it all comes down to investment. I firmly believe that without personal commitment and dedication, success cannot be achieved,” he added.
Vast and complex, working in the aviation industry has its perks and downs. And each day comes with unexpected surprises.
So, how does one strike a work-life balance environment in aviation?
“It’s not always easy, but for me, it comes down to communication and trust. Family remains the cornerstone—there’s no doubt about it. Behind every good professional, there’s a strong family foundation. I share a lot of my professional experiences at home, and I’m not the only one in my household working in this industry. That’s definitely an advantage,” said Ceccaldi.
Apart from spending time with his family to keep his work and life happily balanced, Ceccaldi is also into sports. And when it comes to food, he delights in having Thai, Mexican or Italian dishes.
Asked about his favorite destinations, he replied, “Asia—Thailand, Vietnam and Singapore. And New Zealand.”
For those building a career in aviation and the air cargo industry, Ceccaldi has this advice, “Enjoy your career and make the best happen for yourself.”
Aviation has always been more than just an industry for Dr. Jan-Wilhelm Breithaupt —it’s been part of his DNA. Raised in a household where both his parents worked for Pan American, and with his father overseeing cargo operations at Hanover Airport, his connection to the skies was formed early on. Now, as the Managing Director and CEO of Jettainer GmbH, Dr. Breithaupt leads with a unique blend of passion, experience, and vision.
“Aircraft and the aviation world fascinated me from an early age,” Dr. Breithaupt shared. However, his father, keenly aware of the industry’s volatility, advised him to pursue a more stable path, leading him to study mechanical engineering and production logistics. Despite this pragmatic choice, his passion for aviation eventually drew him back, landing a fulfilling role at Lufthansa Technical Logistics.
Over the years, he climbed the ranks, holding roles such as global fulfillment management at Lufthansa Cargo before stepping into his current position at Jettainer.
Reflecting on his first months as Jettainer’s CEO, Dr. Breithaupt found the company’s smaller, agile structure refreshing. “The flat hierarchies and culture of quick decision-making here are invigorating,” he noted.
Transitioning from passenger operations to the cargo sector came with its share of hurdles. “The industry was very airline-centric when I started, and logistics wasn’t a priority,” Dr. Breithaupt explained. While his background in production logistics was an asset, convincing seasoned colleagues to adopt new strategies like lean processes posed a challenge. Yet, Dr. Breithaupt’s persistence paid off, and he gradually gained acceptance within the close-knit cargo community by engaging at industry conferences and building strong relationships.
“This industry is very much people-driven,” he emphasized. Establishing a network of stakeholders was critical, but the openness of the cargo community made the process rewarding. Now, with over a decade of experience, he proudly calls the air cargo sector “a fantastic space to work in.”
In an industry that never sleeps, maintaining a work-life balance might seem impossible, but Dr. Breithaupt has found his stride. “It comes down to how you lead your team,” he said, emphasizing the importance of trust. By delegating responsibilities and empowering his team, he avoids being consumed by operational details. “If something needs improvement, we address it together. This approach keeps operations stable and ensures I’m not constantly dealing with crises at odd hours.”
Outside of work, Dr. Breithaupt finds fulfillment in charitable efforts, having been an active Lions Club member for over a decade. Sports with friends from diverse industries provide another outlet. “When we’re together, we talk about anything but aviation,” he laughed, highlighting the importance of stepping away to recharge.
For a man in aviation, choosing a favorite destination is no easy task. Yet, Hong Kong holds a special place in Breithaupt’s heart. “It’s dynamic, authentic, and has such a unique vibe,” he enthuses. From the bustling city to serene escapes like Lantau and Lamma Islands, Hong Kong’s blend of energy and tranquility captivates him.
While he appreciates Singapore’s spotless perfection, it’s Hong Kong’s raw authenticity that he finds most compelling. “It feels more real, more tangible,” he says, adding that both cities offer distinct yet enriching experiences.
When asked about role models, Dr. Breithaupt highlighted the importance of visionary leadership. “A true leader has a clear plan for the next 3-5 years and listens to their team while maintaining focus,” he explained. He values leaders who minimize hierarchies and maintain direct, approachable communication. “At Jettainer, I talk directly to the concerned person,” he says. “It’s efficient and fosters stronger connections.”
Dr. Breithaupt encourages young adults to consider a career in the sector, saying, “The air cargo industry is global, dynamic, and incredibly rewarding. To the younger generation: Come join us. We need your energy and ideas. The air cargo industry is a fascinating place to build a meaningful, exciting career.”
Rajesh Menon
Cathay Pacific, Regional Head of Cargo
South Asia, Middle East and Africa
Tech gadgets like smart phones are life’s essentials in today’s digital age but too much of it could also be bad. Experts said excessive use of mobile phones can alienate us from our loved ones and friends and distract us from spending time in real physical activities. Yet, few of us have the discipline to digitally disconnect every now and then.
For Rajesh Menon, Cathay Pacific Airways’ Regional Head of Cargo for South Asia, the Middle East and Africa, it’s important to keep a healthy work-life balance. He’s among those that consciously disconnect from mobile phones while at home.
“Maintaining a healthy work-life balance is crucial for me. I follow a strict phone-free policy once I step into my home, only checking it every two hours. This allows me to be fully present for my family and to focus on my fitness routine,” Menon shared.
The doting father always devotes time to his family. “I cherish spending time with my daughter, who constantly inspires and teaches me. Staying active and prioritizing fitness is part of my daily routine. I also make time for holidays with family and friends, which are precious opportunities for connection and growth.”
Menon’s job is demanding, requires a lot of attention and right decisions to be made. But this aviation veteran finds that dynamic culture alluring and challenging.
“I have an innate passion for the aviation industry, having navigated through various roles, right from airport operations, passenger sales, and to air cargo. This journey is fueled by my love for travelling the world,” he shared on what motivated him to join the aviation industry.
“The dynamic nature of this field, influenced by factors like natural disasters, political upheaval, or global pandemics, has taught me the importance of adaptability, agility, and resilience. Continuous learning has been my most effective tool for overcoming these challenges. The insights I gained from customer experience at Cathay were invaluable, especially in guiding our team through difficult times,” he added.
Rajesh also enjoys traveling. “Travelling fuels my curiosity and broadens my perspective. Cape Town remains my favorite destination, but I’m always eager to explore more. Currently, I’m off to Japan and planning to visit Vietnam by the end of the year. Next year, I aim to discover more of Europe.”
And he loves tasting different cuisines, saying, “I embrace the philosophy of ‘when in Rome, do as the Romans do,’ and I enjoy trying diverse cuisines such as Indonesian, Thai, Italian, Sri Lankan, Chinese, Turkish, and Greek.”
At work, Rajesh believes people will thrive in an environment where communication is nurtured and an open-mind to learn new things.
“I encourage my fellow senior professionals to embrace lifelong learning, especially as air cargo is amongst the slowest industry to adopt digitalization compared to other sectors. With the rapid pace of change, staying updated is essential. Likewise, I urge young professionals to consider a career in air cargo and logistics. The pandemic highlighted the industry’s critical role in global trade, and as the world economy continues to grow, so will opportunities in this sector,” he said.
Adding, “The air cargo and logistics industry is transforming, and we need skilled graduates in digital technology, data analytics, digital sales, and marketing. Your expertise will drive this transformation, making a meaningful impact on both the industry and one’s career.”
Growing up, Zameer Marikkar has always dreamt of becoming a pilot. And that ambition would lead to his lifelong career in the aviation industry.
Zameer is the Chief Commercial Officer of Fits Cargo, a hybrid physical and virtual cargo carrier, offering efficient and seamless cargo transportation solutions globally. The company is part of Aberdeen Holdings Pvt Ltd, a privately held investment vehicle specializing in portfolio management.
“From childhood, I always dreamed of becoming a pilot, which led me to study aeronautical engineering. I also have a deep love for travel and exploring new cultures, which further strengthened my passion for this field,” Zameer shares.
Adding, “The aviation industry is dynamic and constantly evolving, offering endless opportunities for growth and innovation. I was drawn by the global nature of the business, the fast-paced environment, and the ability to connect people and goods across borders. The idea of being part of such a vital industry that supports both business and personal travel inspired me to pursue a career in aviation.”
But the path to getting a degree in aviation is not for everyone. It is expensive and requires a lot of focus and determination.
Zameer struggled financially pursuing his degree but made it by working while studying and with the help of his parents. His next hurdle was how to penetrate the competitive global aviation industry.
“Breaking into the aviation industry is always difficult, and it took time and perseverance to secure opportunities. I overcame these challenges through persistence, networking, and staying committed to my goals. By continuously improving my skills and seeking out every available opportunity, I was able to establish myself in the industry,” he said. And as they say, the rest is history.
Striking a work-balance lifestyle is always a struggle for busy workaholic executives in all industries. And Zameer is no exception.
“To be honest, I’m a workaholic, therefore, I don’t have a perfect work-life balance. However, I do manage to juggle both my work and personal life by being flexible and adapting to the demands of the moment. While it’s not always easy, I’ve learned that it’s important to carve out time for yourself, even in small ways,” he said.
For him, the perfect way to relax is spending time with his loved ones watching movies and doing other activities. “For me, the best way to unwind is by watching movies or hanging out with loved ones. It helps me relax and disconnect from the demands of work. Spending time with people I enjoy or getting lost in a good movie is a great way to recharge and refresh my mind.”
Zameer also delights in having a bowl of ramen or a plateful of sushi with fresh ingredients. “Whether it’s the subtle taste of sashimi or the comfort of a hot bowl of miso soup, Japanese cuisine offers a perfect mix of flavor and nutrition that I really appreciate. I also have a personal connection to it as I worked as a Japanese chef while studying, which has deepened my appreciation for the art of Japanese cooking,” he shared.
This CCO is also into traveling, swimming and snorkeling and Maldives is one of his favorites.
“Maldives offers some of the best underwater experiences with its vibrant coral reefs and marine life. There’s something special about staying by the beach, hearing the sound of the waves, and feeling completely at peace. In the future, I’d love to visit Switzerland. The idea of exploring the beautiful Swiss Alps, picturesque villages, and serene lakes really appeals to me. Switzerland offers a perfect blend of nature and tranquility, and I’m excited about experiencing its breathtaking scenery,” said Zameer who remains curious and eager to learn new things despite his achievements in the industry.
Do Xuan Quang
CEO, Vietjetair Cargo
In the bustling world of aviation, it’s not every day you come across someone who seamlessly transitions from studying law to becoming a key player in the logistics and aviation industry.
But that’s exactly what Do Xuan Quang, the CEO of Vietjetair Cargo did—and he’s loving every moment of it.
Quang’s journey is anything but typical. “I actually started with a law degree,” he says with a laugh, recalling his early days.
“But after graduation, I returned to Vietnam from the Soviet Union and joined a logistics company. That’s where my love for aviation and logistics truly began.”
It wasn’t just a career change; it was a leap into an entirely new world—one that, as it turns out, suited him perfectly.
Quang’s eyes light up when he talks about his childhood dream of flying and exploring the world.
“I’ve always had a dream to fly and discover new places. Aviation was a natural fit for me because it combines that passion with a career,”
he shares. “I love what I do, and I think that’s what has kept me going all these years.”
Balancing a demanding career with personal life is no small feat, especially in an industry that never sleeps.
“It’s definitely a challenge,” Quang admits, “When you’re traveling almost 20 days out of the month, finding time for family is tough.”
But Quang has found his own way of striking that elusive balance. “I try to enjoy my hobbies—like playing the guitar and reading. These small moments of relaxation help me keep everything in check.”
When asked about his favorite destinations, Quang said, “I’ve traveled all over Europe, China, South Africa—but I have a special place in my heart for Italy and France. There’s something about their culture and food that’s just amazing.”
Despite his extensive travels, he also finds joy in the simple pleasures of life, such as savoring international cuisines, with Italian and French dishes being his top picks.
Quang offers some thoughtful advice for the younger generation.
“You need to have ambition and a love for what you do,” he says earnestly.
“Don’t just work because you have to—work because you want to. Have a dream and stay motivated. That’s the key to success.”
And with that, it’s clear that Do Xuan Quang isn’t just a seasoned executive—he’s a man who’s carved out a fulfilling career by following his passions and staying true to his dreams.
Meet Noor Azizah, the dynamic Regional VP for Asia Pacific (excluding China) at ECS Group.
Her journey in the aviation industry began in a rather charming and unconventional way. Fresh out of school, with a youthful sparkle and a thirst for adventure, Azizah landed her first job at Cargolux.
Initially, she felt like a fish out of water in the cargo world, especially since it wasn’t the typical choice for young professionals.
But as time went on, what started as a leap of faith turned into a love affair with the industry.
From the old-school days of manual operations—pens, paper, telexes, and faxes—to the fast-paced logistics realm of today,
Azizah has witnessed and contributed to an incredible evolution.
“It’s a bit like going from a vintage romance to a high-tech love story. My journey is a testament to embracing the unexpected and finding passion in the most unlikely places,” Azizah shares.
Like any aviation professional, the path wasn’t always smooth for Azizah.
“Using my experience and expertise, I dove into new challenges headfirst, successfully expanding and establishing offices in Southeast Asia with my previous airline company. One of the biggest challenges I faced was a major restructuring and reorganization. It was a demanding and complex task that took a lot of time and effort, but it ultimately led to significant growth and improvement within the company,” she said.
Maintaining a work-life balance can often feel like trying to juggle flaming torches while riding a unicycle.
So how does Azizah manage it?
With a cool demeanor and a knack for letting go of stress, she makes work-life balance look effortless.
“Some people say I’m naturally cool, and I like to think they’re right! I’m the kind of person who believes in forgiving and forgetting, which I guess makes me stronger. Work-life balance just comes naturally to me.
“Stress and tension at work are all part of the job, but I see them as challenges to be handled professionally. That way, they don’t mix with my personal time, keeping my life fun and relaxed,” said Azizah.
In her free time, especially on weekends, Azizah loves watching romantic dramas from Hollywood, Malay, Korean, and Thai genres.
“I can easily spend the whole day binge-watching and trying to finish as many episodes as possible! It’s my favorite way to relax and unwind.”
Her taste buds have a passion for carbs—pasta, pizza, rice, noodles—you name it.
She doesn’t limit herself to a single cuisine but loves exploring different flavors.
As for travel, the UK has captured her heart. “My next UK trip will be spending more time in the countryside, surrounded by natural beauty and fresh air! I look forward to relaxing there. (Cornwall, Yorkshire, Kent, Scotland),” she said.
Azizah’s role model is someone who embodies resilience, dedication, and passion for their work in the aviation industry.
“I’ve been lucky to learn from both first and second-generation experts. Their commitment and hard work, especially during the early days of manual operations, have been truly inspiring. These folks showed me that with perseverance and a love for what you do, you can achieve great things and make a real impact. It’s like having a front-row seat to an inspiring journey where passion meets purpose,” said Azizah.
To the younger generation in air cargo and logistics, Azizah offers sage advice: “Embrace every challenge and the excitement this field brings. It’s a world that’s always changing, and there’s so much to discover and contribute. Stay adaptable, keep your curiosity alive, and never stop learning. Every small effort you make adds up to something big. Find mentors who can guide you, soak up their wisdom, and always aim for excellence. Your dedication and passion are the keys to shaping the future of this industry.”
Jonathan Mellink Rotate, Head of Sales and Marketing
Rotate consists of a team of strategists, data gurus and tech experts, all driven by their passion for air freight and a talent for solving tricky puzzles.
How? By diving into data, creating smart strategies and developing cutting-edge software that airlines love.
Among the team’s bright stars is Jonathan Mellink, Rotate’s Head of Sales and Marketing.
Jonathan began his journey as a data engineer at Seabury Cargo. His career path led him through the intricate workings of operations at Flexport, where he discovered a deep-seated passion for engaging with clients on all things cargo related.
Seamlessly blending his analytical prowess and rich industry experience to collaboratively design innovative products alongside clients, Jonathan seems to have found his niche. His childhood ambition was to soar as a fighter pilot took a surprising turn.
Going on the recruitment journey with determination and dreams aplenty, Jonathan discovered that sometimes, the flight path to one’s destiny takes an unexpected detour right from the first round.
“Fortunately, I wasn’t coerced into my career path; it’s something I genuinely love. Ever since I was young, I’ve dreamt of becoming a pilot, particularly a fighter pilot. Although that dream didn’t materialize, I remained passionate about aviation. I pursued the necessary recruitment tests, but unfortunately, I was eliminated in the initial round. It’s okay though; what matters is that I gave it my best shot,” Jonathan shares.
“Despite this setback, my love for aviation persisted. After graduating, I found myself drawn to CBC Chicago, where I discovered a perfect intersection of my interests: aviation and logistics. What captivates me about logistics is its tangible nature—it’s an industry where you can see the direct impact of your work,” he added.
For Jonathan, balancing work across 24 time zones is like spinning plates at a circus. “Sometimes you wake up early, sometimes you burn the midnight oil. It’s all about honesty, flexibility, and occasionally telling clients, ‘Sorry, it’s daddy-daughter day!’ But when it’s ‘go’ time, we’re all in, ready to tackle any challenge that comes our way.”
Choosing a favorite international cuisine for Jonathan was a tough one while talking to Air Cargo Update.
“Right now, I’ve got a serious crush on Mexican cuisine. There’s just something magical about that perfect blend of fresh ingredients and cozy comfort. It’s like finding a unicorn—rare, but oh so satisfying when you do,” he said but noted, once in while, he changes his cuisine to another perfect mix.
“Whether I’m savoring traditional Chinese cuisine in China or hosting board game marathons with friends every couple of months, it’s all about enjoying the moment, sharing stories, and of course, savoring some great eats along the way.”
And when it comes to places, Jonathan has so many favorites.
“My favorite travel destination? That’s a tough one! Right now, I’m loving Kuala Lumpur for its vibrant adult vibes. But you know, when it comes to that perfect mix of authentic charm and modern allure, Bangkok steals my heart. It’s like a cultural melting pot where everyone finds something to love—just like Singapore, but with its own spicy twist.”
Describing the air cargo industry as a “relationship business,” Jonathan shares every moment is dynamic and exciting.
“You know, in this wild world of air cargo, it’s all about the people. I’ve got a huge respect for those industry wizards who can effortlessly blend relationship-building with hardcore data crunching. It’s like they’ve mastered the art of mixing business with pleasure—making deals over coffee in Chicago one day, then hashing out strategies over dim sum in Shanghai the next. Hats off to those folks who know how to navigate both the boardroom and the barbeque with equal finesse!”
Technology has made the world smaller and faster.Real time communication with people from all over the world at different time zones through phones and gadgets
