60 Seconds With… Zafer Aggunduz
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.
