Appointment comes as air cargo forecast to grow 2.6% this year, increasing pressure on carriers and handlers to improve operational efficiency.
Air cargo software firm CHAMP Cargosystems has appointed Manuel Galindo as its new chief executive to replace outgoing leader Chris McDermott.
Galindo co-founded online air cargo booking platform WebCargo and is described by CHAMP as a “seasoned software as a service (SaaS) leader with deep expertise in air cargo”.
"His strategic priorities include strengthening the CHAMP neo Platform, improving interoperability across airline and partner systems, and supporting customers as air cargo continues to move toward more standardised, digital, and data-driven operations," the company said.
"Under his leadership, CHAMP aims to reinforce its role as a trusted, mission-critical technology partner for the global air cargo ecosystem."
David Lavorel, chief executive of CHAMP parent, SITA Group, said the new leadership appointment comes as air cargo is forecast to grow by 2.6% this year, which will increase pressure on airlines, forwarders and handlers to become more efficient.
"As digitalisation accelerates and operational complexity increases, the industry is relying more than ever on robust, flexible, and seamlessly connected platforms to keep global supply chains moving," Lavorel said.
"Together with the CHAMP leadership team, Manuel is well-positioned to guide the organisation through its next stage of growth and to support the industry as it navigates rising digital, operational, and scale demands.”
Galindo added that he would focus on reinforcing the company's position as a "highly trusted, mission-critical technology partner" for the global air cargo community.
McDermott had served as chief executive since October 2020 during a period of "significant strategic alignment and transformation".
SITA became the sole owner of CHAMP in 2022 after buying the stake owned by Cargolux Airlines. The transaction saw SITA acquire its joint venture partner's 49% holding
