Aviation jobs in Castle Donington

Job Overview

We are looking for an experienced Business Development Manager to support the continued growth of our ground handling business across the UK.

The role will focus on developing commercial opportunities with airlines, cargo carriers and other aviation partners, particularly airlines operating between China and the UK, and promoting our ground handling services including cargo handling, ramp services and related operational solutions.

A key part of the role will be identifying and developing new airline partnerships, building long-term commercial relationships and converting industry connections into sustainable business opportunities.

As the position involves regular communication and business development with China-based airlines and stakeholders, professional fluency in Mandarin Chinese is required. Candidates with an established network within Chinese airlines or the China–UK aviation market would be particularly relevant.

Key Responsibilities

1. Business Development

• Identifying and developing new business opportunities with airlines, cargo carriers and aviation industry partners.
• Developing relationships with Chinese airlines and other carriers operating between China and the UK/Europe.
• Promoting the company's ground handling services, including cargo handling, ramp handling and related airport operational services.
• Identifying new routes, airline customers and partnership opportunities across UK and European airports.
• Building and maintaining a strong commercial pipeline and following opportunities through from initial contact to contract stage.

2. Client & Partnership Management

• Building and maintaining long-term relationships with airline clients and key aviation stakeholders.
• Understanding client requirements and developing appropriate commercial and operational solutions.
• Leading commercial discussions, service proposals and contract negotiations.
• Maintaining regular communication with existing and prospective airline partners.
• Representing the company in meetings with airlines, aviation partners and other industry stakeholders.

3. Internal Coordination

• Working closely with ground handling, ramp, cargo and operational teams to ensure proposed solutions can be delivered effectively.
• Translating customer requirements into practical operational solutions.
• Coordinating with internal teams in the UK and China throughout the business development and implementation process.
• Supporting the onboarding of new airline customers and help ensure a smooth transition from commercial agreement to operational delivery.

Requirements

• Relevant professional experience within the aviation, airline, air cargo, ground handling, freight forwarding or airport services industry.
• Proven experience in business development, commercial partnerships, sales or airline account management.
• An established professional network with Chinese airlines, cargo carriers or China-based aviation stakeholders would be a strong advantage.
• Good understanding of air cargo and ground handling operations.
• Professional fluency in Mandarin Chinese is required, as the role involves regular communication and relationship development with China-based airlines, customers and internal stakeholders. Strong professional English communication skills are also required.

Job Type: Full-time

Experience:

• aviation/air cargo/ground handling/freight forwarding: 3 years (required)
• business development/account management: 3 years (required)

Language:

• Chinese (required)

Work Location: In person