Zafer Aggunduz is the Chief Commercial Officer at Global GSA Group, where he is responsible for leading the group’s global commercial strategy, business development, and customer relations, with a strong focus on revenue growth and market expansion. Zafer first wrote his thesis for Global GSA Group back in 2011 and joined the group’s marketing division in 2014. Since then, he has held various leadership roles, driving sales performance and enhancing customer engagement.
What’s your most memorable moment in the air cargo industry?
For sure signing my first GSA contract with an airline on my own.
What was your dream job as a child?
Nothing specific when I was a child, but as a teenager it wanted to become a pilot. Moreover, I have even applied and successfully passed all the tests at a flag carrier flight school. First time I experienced racism on a corporate level, as someone in the organization threatened me that they would make sure the committee would block my application. Nowadays I’m thankful for that day. It was a good life lesson and happy I haven’t become a pilot, as it doesn’t suit me.
What’s the biggest change you’ve seen in the industry?
I remember the days I started working in 2014, and the first thing I noticed was that the air cargo industry was far behind in utilizing tech. The necessary tech was available or at least the tools could have been developed, and carriers already implemented it in their passenger division. Since then, slowly by slowly digitalization was introduced. The market was sceptical and did not anticipate the rapid development and market penetration. The shift toward automation and sustainability is transforming the industry nowadays.
What’s the most unusual thing you’ve ever shipped?
Exotic animals for a wildlife conservation program.
Window or aisle seat?
Aisle seat. Easier access and no climbing over people during long-haul flights. But can’t resist a window seat while flying to e.g. LHR and have a nice city view or see the Alps while traveling to MXP.
What’s the best business lesson you’ve learned the hard way?
The importance of managing my own expectations. In the air cargo industry, things can change quickly, and we face unexpected challenges. By setting realistic goals and being prepared for the unexpected, I’ve learned to stay positive and maintain momentum without feeling disappointed when things don’t always go as expected.
If you could swap jobs with anyone for a day, who would it be?
Cargo Director at an airline. Experiencing the other side of the table for once.
Which three items would you bring to a desert island?
My dream wish list: fishing net, knife, fire-starter kit. But reality: Laptop, phone, and power bank.
Tea or coffee?
Coffee in the morning as it is an essential fuel for our hectic industry, and Turkish tea in the evening for some peace of mind.
What’s your guilty pleasure TV show or movie?
“The Big Bang Theory” for sure. Watched all the episodes, perhaps 7-8 times. I start laughing before the funny scenes, as I already know by heart what’s coming up.
What’s the most exciting place you’ve visited for work?
Hong Kong, by far one of the most impressive cities in the world.
If you could introduce one new regulation in air cargo, what would it be?
Mandating standardized training for all cargo personnel. Requiring a global baseline level of training for everyone involved in air cargo. This would improve the overall quality of services in the industry.
Describe your job in three words.
Dynamic, challenging and rewarding.
What’s your hidden talent?
Very all-round and therefore not reliable on support from others.
If you could instantly master one skill, what would it be?
Time management. There are never enough hours in a day in this industry.
What’s something on your bucket list?
Running a marathon for one’s and visiting Zhangjiajie National Forest Park in China.
What’s the best airport in the world, and why?
Schiphol, just because it gives me the feeling that I’m almost home after travel.
If air cargo had a mascot, what would it be?
A hybrid of a muscled pigeon and the Tasmanian Devil. Slightly chaotic, but always getting the job done, no matter the obstacles!
