Every week, CargoForwarder Global shifts the ‘Spotlight On…’ to a specific segment of the air cargo industry, giving the mic to an individual working there. This is to illustrate just how varied its career opportunities are. In such a fragmented industry, with so many different stakeholders involved in getting air cargo safely from A to B, it is all the more important to have a global platform where they can all come together and discuss the topics driving the industry. TIACA is one such platform offering collaboration, support on topics such as sustainability/digitalization, and a unified industry voice advocating for the future of air cargo logistics. This week, Kenneth Gibson (KG), Head of Business Development & Membership at TIACA, shares insight into his responsibilities, views and advice to those considering working within air cargo.
CFG: What is your current function and company? And what are your responsibilities?
KG: As Head of Business Development & Membership for TIACA, The International Air Cargo Association, my goal is to aide our members in getting the most benefit out of their memberships; by connecting them with potential customers/vendors, increasing their brand awareness, and showcasing their industry footprint (this includes accomplishments, sustainability goals, growth, and innovations, to name a few). My responsibilities include expanding TIACA membership, selling/promoting TIACA events, and I’m currently the acting Master of Ceremony for TIACA’s Air Cargo Forum and Executive Summit.
CFG: What does a normal day look like for you?
KG: Being in the U.S., we have to catch up to the rest of the world, so, I usually schedule my meetings early (6-7 a.m.). I then begin working on emails, drop off the kids at school between 8-8.30 a.m., followed by some gym time before heading back to the office. I split up my day between current member support and prospecting for new business. Depending on the time of year, ‘new business’ could mean prospecting for new members, new exhibitors, and/or new sponsors. The rest of my day, I use to address any existing member issues, provide ‘Member 2 Member’ introductions, and overall member support.
CFG: How long have you been in the air cargo industry, and what brought you to it?
KG: Going on 12 years now. I landed a temp job with CNS (IATA) in 2014. Mr. Warren Jones was the President of CNS at the time, and he referred me to TIACA’s Director General, Mr. Douglas Brittain.
Before that, I had no exposure to the Air Cargo industry, nor any sales experience for that matter. However, once on board, I saw an opportunity to help people in growing their businesses. TIACA, and the industry in general, provided me with a new sense of purpose. The ability to connect others and be a part of their company’s journey was very empowering and fulfilling. Something I had never experienced professionally.
I decided this is the industry for me. In the years that followed, I went back to school and earned a Master’s Degree in Global Strategic Communications.
CFG: What do you enjoy most about your job?
KG: I enjoy getting to meet new people, experiencing new cultures, and the gratification I get in supporting our members.
TIACA has created a sense of ‘family’ within the industry, and I’m very privileged to be a part of it. From our Board of Directors to the TIACA team, you can feel that it’s ‘friends first, colleagues second’.
CFG: Where do you see the greatest challenges in our industry?
KG: I believe the biggest challenge will be in attracting and retaining future talent.
Air Cargo is much more than moving boxes. I’m confident that Air Cargo can provide anyone who’s willing to listen, with a sense of career satisfaction and excitement.
CFG: What advice would you give to people looking to get into the air cargo industry?
KG: Think of what you like to do, your strengths, your character… I’m sure there is a role in air cargo that is made just for you.
Stop thinking of Air Cargo as only pilots and delivery men & women.
Aside from the Supply Chain, Logistics, and Operational side, you’ll find opportunities in Media, Journalism, Creativity, Marketing, Sales & Communications, Sustainability, Consulting, Events, and more.
CFG: If the air cargo industry were a film/book, what would its title be?
KG: ‘Here today… the World, tomorrow.
Thank you, Kenneth!
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.
