CargoForwarder Global’s ‘Spotlight On…’ series brings a different role in the air cargo industry to the fore each week, by showcasing individuals in their function. By its very nature, international air cargo is bound by regulations – regarding physical handling, build-up and loading, and safety, as well as national and international laws that dictate which commodities can be sent where, in what quantities, and what paperwork is required. This week, Swissport’s Jamelene Latania Jeffries takes us through the responsibilities of an Export Agent, and shares her views and experiences of the air cargo industry.
CFG: What is your current function and company? And what are your responsibilities?
JJ: My name is Jamelene Latania Jeffries. I am 29 years old. I am currently employed at Swissport Cargo Services Cape Town, as a Cargo Agent in the Export office department. Some of my daily responsibilities include the following:
- Ensuring cargo is handed in with accurate and correct required documentation.
- Capturing air waybills on cargo management systems, verifying cargo dimensions, pieces and weights, and maintaining accurate records of documentation.
- Communicating with stakeholders by responding to emails, calls and messages from airlines, shippers and consignees.
- Communicating with warehouse staff to ensure correct shipments were loaded and manifested on correct ULDs and correct flights.
- Preparing documentation to accompany cargo on flights.
CFG: What does a normal day look like for you?
JJ: Personally, I would say that a normal day in the aviation industry does not exist. Given that the industry is rapidly changing, you might have to apply a certain aspect when conducting a flight, that was not necessarily a requirement yesterday. Also, workloads differ from day to day.
CFG: How long have you been in the air cargo industry, and what brought you to it?
JJ: I have been a part of the air cargo industry for approximately one year. Growing up, I was always fascinated by airplanes and the freedom of flight. I would describe myself as an individual who is always eager to learn and engage in new challenges and because aviation’s unique blend of technicality and customer services aligned with my skills and interests, and it is a dynamic field with opportunities for growth and professional development, which is committed to safety and precision, it inspired me to pursue a career in the industry.
CFG: What do you enjoy most about your job?
JJ: I enjoy:
- Being able to build relationships with clients and airlines.
- Ensuring that cargo is delivered intact on time and efficiently – this gives me immense satisfaction.
- Being a part of a global network that provides opportunities for travel and industry event participation.
- That it is a fast-paced dynamic environment that enables you to stay updated on industry innovations and technological advancements.
- That it also helps build character and increases your ability to think and analyze critically.
CFG: What do you see as the greatest challenges in our industry?
JJ: I feel the greatest challenges are:
- Cyber security threats: Protecting sensitive data and systems.
- Weather-related risks.
- Terrorism and hijacking.
- Capacity constraints.
- Air traffic control congestion.
- Flight delays and cancellations.
CFG: What advice would you give to people to get into the air cargo industry? Any particular training they should aim for?
JJ: Pursue courses in logistics, supply chain management or any other field related to aviation. Participating in any training that is presented to you is an advantage. Even if it is not related to your occupation or position you are aiming for or already pursuing, it might be of an advantage to you soon. As the saying goes: ‘Knowledge is Power’. Manage stress and adapt to pressure, stay curious and committed to professional growth.
CFG: If the air cargo industry were a film/book, what would its title be?
JJ: If the air cargo industry was a film or book, I would have named it either ‘The Sky is Limitless’ or ‘Flight of Fortune’.
Thank you, Jamelene, for your answers!
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.
