Senior Operational Key Account Manager – Defence

DSV - Global Transport and Logistics

. Manage end-to-end logistics operations for key Defense/government clients, including air and sea freight forwarding, customs clearance, export/import control, and warehouse coordination.

Posted 10/5/2026full-timeAbu Dhabi • United Arab EmiratesSeniorWebsite

Core Competencies

Role fit

Core Competencies

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Demonstrates expertise in managing logistics operations for Defense clients, ensuring compliance with international shipping regulations and optimizing processes for air and sea freight. Strong capabilities in client relationship management, operational excellence, and analytical problem-solving.

Highest-signal resume keywords

Logistics ManagementDefense Industry ExperienceAir And Sea Freight OperationsClient Relationship ManagementRegulatory Compliance

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills

Logistics Software ProficiencyAir And Sea Freight OperationsOversized Project ManagementExport Control KnowledgeITAR ComplianceDGR/Class 1 Cargo AwarenessKPI MonitoringSLA ManagementTender ManagementOperational Metrics Analysis

Soft Skills

Analytical AbilitiesProblem-Solving SkillsLeadership SkillsNegotiation SkillsCommunication Skills

Tools & Technologies

WMSTMSERPMS Office

Industry Keywords

Defense LogisticsGovernment ContractsCustoms ClearanceExport/Import ControlMODSIRAGHQClient Escalation ManagementContinuous ImprovementOperational Excellence

Tech Stack

Tools & technologies

ERP

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Manage end-to-end logistics operations for key Defense/government clients, including air and sea freight forwarding, customs clearance, export/import control, and warehouse coordination.
Develop and maintain relationships with key Defense accounts to ensure customer satisfaction and long-term partnerships.
Coordinate with operations, customer service, finance, and compliance departments to ensure timely and accurate delivery service.
Monitor KPIs, SLAs, operational metrics, and service levels; implement corrective actions as needed.
Ensure compliance with international shipping regulations, documentation requirements, and company policies.
Handle client escalations, provide solutions, and act as the main liaison between clients and operational teams.
Support continuous improvement initiatives to optimize processes, reduce costs, and enhance service quality.
Prepare regular management reports on account performance, operational challenges, and client feedback.
Oversee scheduling, planning, and resource allocation for air and sea shipments.
Maintain knowledge of Defense operational processes involving pricing, shipment handling, approvals, and government relationships such as MOD and SIRA/GHQ customs authorities.
Perform other related duties and projects assigned by management.

Requirements

What you’ll need

Bachelor’s degree in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or related field.
Proven experience in air and sea freight operations and oversized projects (charters, breakbulk).
Proficiency in logistics software (WMS, TMS, ERP) and MS Office.
Extensive experience in the Defense industry, including military, MOD, and GHQ-controlled operations.
Proven expertise in handling complex tenders for large defense/government customers.
Experience in sales and providing solutions based on customer needs.
Strong understanding of Defense air and sea freight operations and regulations, including Export Control, ITAR, MOD, and DGR/Class 1 cargo awareness.
Excellent Defense client relationship management and communication skills.
Analytical and problem-solving abilities with attention to detail.
Leadership and team coordination skills.
Strong negotiation and contract management capabilities.
Commitment to operational excellence, safety, and compliance.