Spotlight on… Nikola Todic, Managing Director, heyworld GmbH

CargoForwarder Global’s ‘Spotlight On…’ series highlights the manifold roles that serve to ensure the air cargo industry runs smoothly and efficiently. Fast logistics has taken on a new dimension with the emergence and rapid rise of eCommerce, and what was once a clear split between integrator and general air cargo business, has become largely blurred over the past few years. Reason enough to talk to Nikola Todic, Managing Director of heyworld GmbH, to learn about his function, and hear his experience and advice for those wanting to join the air cargo industry.


It’s everything but boring at heyworld. Image: Nikola Todic

CFG: What is your current function and company? And what are your responsibilities?
NT: I am one of two Managing Directors at heyworld, and am responsible for Sales and Operations. Heyworld is a 100% subsidiary of the Lufthansa Cargo Group. We build and manage end-2-end eCommerce solutions with a clear focus on cross-border parcel deliveries. With our eCommerce platform, we connect last mile carriers, customs brokers and air cargo carriers with global eCommerce brands and platforms to deliver fast and cost-efficient shipping options.

CFG: What does a normal day look like for you?
NT: I joined heyworld at the of beginning 2023, and I really think there has been no day like the next. Change is the new normal; we have all known that for years. But the recent pace that new eCommerce players and platforms have brought to the industry, is energizing and challenging at the same time. From winning new customers, building innovating shipping solutions, all the way to day-to-day challenges. I always like to tell the team: I promise you one thing, it will be everything but boring at heyworld.

CFG: How long have you been in the air cargo industry, and what brought you to it?
NT: I started as a management trainee at the Lufthansa Group, but very soon moved into the air cargo business after just one year. Back then, I joined the CEO office at Lufthansa Cargo as I was keen to learn and develop in a truly global organization. Also, with my background in economics, it’s always exciting to see global trade and market news affecting our day-to-day business in no time. You hear about new regulations, an airport congestion or short-term market demands, and the infinite game starts over again.

CFG: What do you enjoy most about your job?
NT: Clearly the diverse team I work with and the ever-evolving opportunities.

CFG: What do you see as the greatest challenges in our industry?
NT: I think it’s finding the right balance between three things. First: staying relevant and meeting increasing customer demands. Second: managing a competitive cost-base to allow room for growth and trade. And third: implementing more sustainable supply chains at a higher pace. All three are equally important, yet often it seems we can’t achieve all three at the same time – kind of like a perfect triangle that we strive for. One day, we will have to achieve it to win in the long-term.

CFG: What advice would you give to people to get into the air cargo industry? Any particular training they should aim for?
NT: Come with the right hunger and some healthy patience; sometimes things take time.

CFG: If the air cargo industry were a film/book, what would its title be?
NT: “The Infinite Game” by Simon Sinek. I also highly recommend reading this one.

Many thanks for your replies, Niko.


If you would like to share your personal air cargo story with our CargoForwarder Global readers, feel free to send your answers to the above questions to cargoforwarderglobal@kopfpilot.at We look forward to shining a spotlight on your job area, views, and experiences.

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