With over 19 years of experience in the aviation industry, Alexey Zotov is the Managing Director of Air Cargo Green Capabilities, overseeing the operations strategy and development of the company.
How did you get into airfreight/logistics?
My father was an aviation engineer and he invited me to work in the airline business, as an aviation dispatcher for small cargo airlines. For more than six years, I was in a top management position – Chief Commercial Officer at AirBridgeCargo Airlines, with revenue responsibility of more than US$3,5 billion a year. In the beginning of 2023, I established Air Cargo Green Capabilities, championing a new era of thinking in air cargo with a focus on sustainable initiatives. We merge traditional professionalism with innovative strategies, offering a global network and eco-friendly solutions for modern cargo needs.
What quote has most resonated with you?
“It always seems impossible until it’s done” – Nelson Mandela.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
“Air cargo business is a people’s business.” This means that it’s not companies who are signing the contracts but people.
If you could have dinner with any three people, living or dead, who would it be and why?
Joe Sutter – American engineer and father of the Boeing 747 – Queen of the Skies, Ayn Rand, my favourite writer, and Michael Jordan – the best NBA player of all time.
What hobby have you always wanted to try but never got around to?
Get a pilot licence and fly across the Atlantic Ocean.
If you have not pursued a career in airfreight, what other field would you have liked to go into?
I would most probably choose some kind of team sports (basketball or football).
What’s your proudest moment and your biggest regret?
The proudest moment is the day my son was born (22.04.16). My biggest regret is the day I left AirBridgeCargo Airlines when it ceased operations (01.05.23).
If there was a movie made about your life, who would you like to see play the lead role?
Al Pacino or Jim Carrey.
Looking back over your career, what would your message be to someone considering a career in logistics?
First, don’t be afraid to speak up and learn, learn, learn. Second, work hard and push new initiatives.
How do you motivate your team?
I am passionate about creating innovative and sustainable solutions for the aviation airfreight sector, and delivering exceptional value and service to our customers. I try to motivate my team to be committed to fostering a culture of excellence, collaboration, and diversity.
What is the one item you can’t travel without?
Bottle of water.
Who is your role model?
My dad.
What would your autobiography be called?
“Easy job.”
Cats or dogs?
Dogs.
Early riser or night owl?
Early riser – yoga time.
What’s the best and worst purchase you’ve ever made?
The best: Ticket to Luxembourg.
The worst: Burger at a railway station in Frankfurt.
If you could only eat one meal for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Fish!
What’s your most used emoji?
👍
