Since Bernardo Nunes’ appointment as Chief Operating Officer in NOV24, Chapman Freeborn has been focusing on restructuring its European cargo operations. The air charter specialist has now named two managers as it seeks to solidify and expand its charter broker business across Europe. With the appointment of James Gilliard as Vice President of Cargo Sales, and Markus Schmidt as Vice President of Cargo Commercial Operations, the company has now completed its strategic restructuring of the European cargo operations team. Both managers report directly to Reto Hunziker who continues in his function as President of Europe. Gilliard’s responsibilities include client acquisition management and expanding into new markets, whereas Schmidt leads brokerage operations and converting customer requests into new business opportunities. A particular focus is also being placed on Eastern European business, where Chapman Freeborn has now appointed a general sales agent.
James Gilliard, Vice President Cargo Sales – Europe, Chapman Freeborn, said: “This is an exciting time to join Chapman Freeborn as it reinvigorates its sales drive into new untapped markets. With strong growth projected in the energy and government sectors, this forward-looking strategy ensures Chapman Freeborn is agile enough to seize these opportunities and continues to deliver the same high-quality service our customers expect.”
Markus Schmidt, Vice President Cargo Commercial Operations – Europe, Chapman Freeborn, stated: “After directing cargo operations across the DACH region for the last two years, I look forward to now leading Chapman Freeborn’s cargo charter brokers across the continent. Our restructured team will engage more closely with new and existing customers to better align with market trends and aggressively target growth.” Reto Hunziker, President – Europe, Chapman Freeborn, commented: “With over 45 years’ experience working in the air cargo industry between them, James and Markus are ideally placed to ensure our team is responsive to volatile market conditions, and I look forward to working with them in this capacity.”
