The Flanders-based airport has recruited Johan Leunen to spearhead cargo development initiatives, attract new business opportunities, and drive sustainable growth
Ostend-Bruges Airport has appointed Johan Leunen to the position of cargo development director as it strives to strengthen its cargo activities.
In his new role at the Belgian airport, Leunen will work alongside cargo sales director Rose Yiqian QIU and Egis Group director of cargo strategy Steven Verhasselt to further develop the airport’s cargo services, attract new business opportunities, and drive sustainable growth in line with the region’s strategic ambitions.
Leunen brings more than 23 years of experience in the air cargo industry to the role and is experienced across cargo handling, forwarding, and airport development.
He began his career in 2000 as a sales manager for Flightcare Belgium, which provides passenger handling, ramp handling and cargo services at multiple European airports, including Brussels and Oostende-Bruges.
Following 11 years with Flightcare, Leunen joined logistics firm Rhenus Air Belgium for a short period as business & market development manager.
In 2012, he joined Brussels Airport Company as cargo marketing manager.
Until 1 January this year, Leunen served as senior business & development manager cargo at Brussels Airport, helping attract new cargo airlines and logistics players.
Since January, he has been an independent consultant for Riflesso.be, which offers guidance for business processes and sustainable growth.
Nathan De Valck, chief executive of Ostend-Bruges Airport, said: “We strongly believe in the opportunities that the air cargo sector holds for Ostend-Bruges Airport. Johan’s expertise, industry knowledge, and extensive network will be a great asset to our team.
"With his support, we are confident we can strengthen our position as a key cargo gateway and contribute to the economic development of the region.”
Ostend-Bruges recently won the Corporate category of TIACA's Air Cargo Sustainability Awards.
