Chapman Freeborn has completed a strategic restructure of its European cargo operations team to manage long-term strength in traditional markets and growth of new industry verticals.

James Gilliard has been appointed Vice President of Cargo Sales, and Markus Schmidt Vice President of Cargo Commercial Operations, both reporting into Reto Hunziker who remains President of Europe.

“This is an exciting time to join Chapman Freeborn as it reinvigorates its sales drive into new untapped markets,” said James Gilliard, Vice President Cargo Sales – Europe, Chapman Freeborn.

“With strong growth projected in the energy and government sectors, this forward-looking strategy ensures Chapman Freeborn is agile enough to seize these opportunities and continues to deliver the same high-quality service our customers expect.”

In addition to the restructure, Chapman Freeborn has appointed a general sales agent in Eastern Europe, a new position which cements its coverage across the European Union and diversifying its sales base.

“After directing cargo operations across the DACH region for the last two years, I look forward to now leading Chapman Freeborn’s cargo charter brokers across the continent,” said Markus Schmidt, Vice President Cargo Commercial Operations – Europe, Chapman Freeborn.

“Our restructured team will engage more closely with new and existing customers to better align with market trends and aggressively target growth.”

Gilliard will lead client acquisition and expansion into new markets, whilst Schmidt heads up brokerage operations, converting customer requests into new business opportunities.

“With over 45 years’ experience working in the air cargo industry between them, James and Markus are ideally placed to ensure our team is responsive to volatile market conditions, and I look forward to working with them in this capacity,” said Reto Hunziker, President – Europe, Chapman Freeborn.

This follows the appointment of Bernardo Nunes as Chief Operating Officer in November last year.