At a Glance
- Tasks: Monitor cargo operations and ensure top-notch customer service while managing third-party performance.
- Company: Join Virgin Atlantic, a leading travel company with a passion for innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, permanent contract, and a supportive work environment.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team that values your unique contributions and fosters growth.
- Qualifications: Experience in airfreight or logistics, strong communication skills, and attention to detail.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace that celebrates diversity and supports your individual needs.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Location: On-site - Dnata city east, London Heathrow
Hours: Full Time, 37.5 hours per week. 4 on 4 off, Days and Nights - 12 hour shifts
Contract Type: Permanent
Salary: Competitive
Closing Date: 15th January 2026
At Virgin Atlantic Airways, we believe that everyone can take on the world, and it’s our vision to become the most loved travel company. As we embark on this next exciting stage of our journey, we’re harnessing our spirit of entrepreneurship and innovation to challenge the status quo.
In a nutshell, in this role as Cargo Operations Officer, you’ll optimally monitor and manage third-party handling company’s performance in achieving Service Level and Standard Ground Handling Agreements and per the Cargo business objectives. You will ensure the highest standard of Customer Service while simultaneously ensuring the safety and security of all aspects of the operation are monitored and maintained at all times.
Day to day:
- Provide Flight Build Plans to the Third-Party Ground Handler
- Audit the performance of the Third-Party handling companies
- Make sound operational decisions at short notice, considering commercial issues, security, safety, customer service, long and short-term impact, and any potential impact in other areas of the company.
- Respond to requests, enquiries, and queries from customers, internal customers, suppliers, in a timely and professional manner, ensuring that the flow of communication between all parties is accurate and effective.
- Maintain good communication and develop effective working relationships at all levels within all areas of the business.
- Act as the point of reference and contact across the Virgin Atlantic Ramp handling process for the delivery of the day’s LHR Cargo loading Operation.
- Monitor the smooth handling of cargo by third-party handling companies on the ramp, especially when in progress between handling companies, dealing with any discrepancies or problems that might arise effectively and efficiently.
About You:
Do you have the ability to remain motivated and work on your own initiative with minimum supervision? Can you combine technical skills with those of Customer Service and commercial awareness? Then this could be the role for you.
Alongside the above, we’re looking for the following:
- Have a broad basic knowledge of the cargo industry, being able to recognise industry terms of reference, and paperwork requirements and to be confident in using associated reference manuals (IATA, COM etc)
- Skilled at supplier performance management and high attention to detail
- Working experience with Microsoft Office applications including Outlook, SharePoint, Excel, Word
- Proven track record in operations within the field of airfreight or logistics, alongside a solid understanding of Customs regulations and documentation requirements
- Experience operating in a fast-paced warehouse environment
- Strong communication and influencing skills and experience
If this sounds like you, and you would like to unlock your potential with us, we would love to hear from you.
Be yourself – Our differences make us stronger. Our customers come from all walks of life and so do our colleagues. That’s why we’re proud to be an equal opportunity employer and actively encourage applications from all backgrounds.
At Virgin Atlantic, we believe everyone can take on the world - no matter your age, gender, gender identity, gender expression, ethnicity, sexual orientation, disabilities, religion, or beliefs. We celebrate difference and everything that makes our colleagues unique by upholding an inclusive environment in which we can all thrive.
To make your journey with us accessible and individual to you, we encourage you to let us know if you’d like a little extra help with your application, or if you have any individual requirements at any stage along your recruitment journey. We are here to support you, so please reach out to our team, feeling confident that we’ve got your individual considerations covered.
Our recipe for Leadership:
At Virgin Atlantic, our leaders empower teams to thrive through collaboration, innovation, and excellence. Explore our Leadership Recipe and discover the 20 core ingredients that define what it means to lead with us, driving our mission to be the most loved travel company and achieve sustainable profit.
Cargo Operations Officer in London employer: Virgin Atlantic
Contact Detail:
Virgin Atlantic Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Cargo Operations Officer in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the cargo and logistics industry on LinkedIn or at local events. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching Virgin Atlantic's values and recent news. Show us that you're not just another candidate, but someone who genuinely cares about our mission to be the most loved travel company.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your communication skills! As a Cargo Operations Officer, you'll need to handle queries and maintain relationships. Role-play with a friend or use online resources to sharpen your responses.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows us that you’re serious about joining the Virgin Atlantic family. Don’t miss out!
We think you need these skills to ace Cargo Operations Officer in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Cargo Operations Officer role. Highlight your experience in airfreight or logistics, and don’t forget to mention any relevant skills like supplier performance management and customer service.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about the cargo industry and how your skills align with Virgin Atlantic's mission. Keep it engaging and personal!
Showcase Your Communication Skills: Since this role involves a lot of communication, make sure to demonstrate your strong communication skills in your application. Use clear and concise language, and provide examples of how you've effectively managed relationships in the past.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for the best chance of success. It’s straightforward, and you’ll be able to keep track of your application status easily. Plus, we love seeing applications come directly from our site!
How to prepare for a job interview at Virgin Atlantic
✨Know Your Cargo Basics
Brush up on your knowledge of the cargo industry, including key terms and paperwork requirements. Familiarity with IATA and COM manuals will show that you’re serious about the role and can hit the ground running.
✨Demonstrate Your Decision-Making Skills
Be prepared to discuss how you've made sound operational decisions in the past, especially under pressure. Think of examples where you balanced safety, customer service, and commercial considerations effectively.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Effective communication is key in this role. Be ready to share experiences where you’ve successfully managed relationships with third-party handlers or resolved discrepancies. Highlight your ability to keep everyone informed and engaged.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Microsoft Office
Since you'll be using tools like Outlook, SharePoint, Excel, and Word, make sure you’re comfortable with these applications. Consider preparing a few examples of how you've used them in previous roles to enhance operations or improve communication.