The International Air Cargo Association (TIACA) has confirmed Glyn Hughes will step down from his position as director general.

Hughes was appointed in February 2021 and has been in the job for five years. TIACA is now seeking a successor to the director general role, although it did not clarify when Hughes will leave the position.

In a webinar, Hughes indicated he may continue working for TIACA in another role, possibly supporting the next generation of industry leaders.

“You won’t see me popping up in another organisation,” he said.

Hughes said: “Serving as Director General since 2021 has been an honor. Together with our Board, members, and team, we have reinforced TIACA’s global presence and strengthened our value proposition.

“The next Director General will inherit a strong platform and an engaged global community, and I am confident they will continue to advance TIACA’s mission with energy and purpose.”

Before joining TIACA, Hughes spent six years as global head of cargo at IATA, starting in the role in 2014. In total, he has worked in the industry for 44 years.

Hughes described his five years as “amazing” and said time had “flown by” and added that he didn’t have a set leaving date.

He added that he would “support the board as they commence the search” and also support the next director general for as long as the board would need to affect a smooth transition and handover.

TIACA chair, Roos Bakker, added: “From the bottom of my heart and from the whole board and the leadership team, a big thank you.”

As chief executive of the Association, the director general operates under the direction of the Board and is responsible for supervising the affairs of the Association, ensuring both financial and operational success.

The director general leads the execution of TIACA’s vision and strategy, developed in collaboration with the Executive Committee and approved by the Board, and is accountable for delivering agreed projects and programs while providing robust operational and financial reporting.

The role also serves as TIACA’s primary representative and spokesperson, maintaining strong relationships with members, partners, media, and industry stakeholders worldwide.

In addition to strategic execution, the director general is tasked with developing and implementing a commercial action plan to ensure TIACA remains relevant, attractive, and financially sustainable, meeting or exceeding revenue goals and identifying new revenue-generating opportunities.

“The Director General plays a critical role in shaping the future of TIACA and ensuring we deliver measurable results for our members and the broader air cargo community,” said Bakker.

“We are seeking a visionary yet practical leader who can execute our strategy with discipline, strengthen our global partnerships, and drive sustainable growth. This is a unique opportunity to guide a respected international association at a time of significant industry transformation.”