Gateway Operations Manager – DHL – Hamilton, ON
Location: Hamilton, ON | Company: DHL
DHL Express, the world’s #1 Express Delivery and Logistics Company, is looking for a Gateway Operations Manager to join their team in Hamilton, Ontario (Mount Hope). This is a leadership role at the heart of DHL’s gateway facility operations, where your decisions directly impact the movement of shipments across import, export, airside, and last-mile delivery processes.
In this role, you’ll lead a team of front-line supervisors who collectively manage over 100 staff, overseeing everything from regulatory compliance to labour relations and operational planning. If you thrive in a fast-paced, unionized logistics environment and have a track record of strong people leadership, this opportunity is worth a close look.
About the Role: Gateway Operations Manager
The Gateway Operations Manager is responsible for the overall efficient and effective running of the gateway facility, with direct oversight of import and export operations, airside processes, line haul, and parcel sort. You’ll ensure all shipments move efficiently through the facility once cleared and are connected to last-mile delivery locations. Day-to-day, you’ll be developing operational plans and budgets, monitoring safety metrics, and working closely with sales management to support business growth.
A significant part of this role involves ensuring compliance with import and export regulations, working with key regulatory bodies including CBSA, Transport Canada, and adhering to IATA and FAA standards for airside operations. You’ll be involved in audit processes, identifying and actioning deficiencies, and maintaining a culture of safety and accountability throughout the facility.
Benefits and Salary
DHL Express offers competitive compensation packages along with a range of programs, services, and benefits designed to support both professional and personal well-being. Employees are part of a global organization known for investing in its people, with opportunities for development and advancement within one of the world’s leading logistics companies.
Job Details
🏢 Company: DHL Express
📍 Location: Mount Hope (Hamilton), Ontario, Canada
🆔 Requisition ID: AV348565
Responsibilities
The Gateway Operations Manager plays a central role in keeping DHL’s facility running smoothly and compliantly. From managing people to monitoring performance metrics and engaging with regulatory bodies, this position touches every corner of gateway operations. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll be accountable for:
- Oversee all gateway operations including import, export, airside, line haul, and parcel sort processes to ensure efficiency and timeliness
- Ensure all cleared materials are moved efficiently through the facility and connected to last-mile delivery locations
- Monitor safety metrics and ensure safe operating practices are followed by all team members
- Develop operational plans and budgets aligned with facility goals and objectives
- Manage employee and labour relations through appropriate application of the Collective Agreement
- Handle all local Human Resources matters in alignment with the HR team, including hiring, coaching, and performance management
- Ensure compliance with import and export regulations, working closely with CBSA, Transport Canada, IATA, and other regulatory bodies
- Lead and develop 5 or more front-line supervisors who collectively manage 100+ staff, supporting their professional growth
- Collaborate with sales management to promote growth and advise on customer activities
- Action employee feedback through front-line supervisors and ensure follow-through
Requirements / Skills
The ideal candidate brings strong leadership experience in a medium-to-large transportation or logistics environment, ideally in a unionized setting. DHL is looking for someone with a solid understanding of operational management principles, regulatory compliance, and people development — someone who can lead by example and drive results at scale.
- 5–7 years of management experience in a medium to large service company, preferably in transportation or logistics
- University degree in an appropriate discipline (BS/BA minimum); professional certification required in some areas
- Unionized environment experience with a solid understanding of Collective Agreement administration
- Regulatory knowledge in import/export compliance, CBSA, Transport Canada, IATA, and FAA standards
- Demonstrated experience implementing quality and process improvement initiatives
- Supervisory experience of at least one year, with proven ability to coach, develop, and manage front-line leaders
- Strong understanding of budgeting, cost control, and productivity improvement practices
How to Apply
To apply for this Gateway Operations Manager position at DHL Express in Hamilton, click the link below to visit the official job posting. Make sure your resume is up to date and reflects your relevant leadership and logistics experience before submitting.
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Job Summary & Tips for Applying
Quick Summary & What to Highlight: This Gateway Operations Manager role at DHL Express in Hamilton is perfect for candidates who excel in logistics operations management, people leadership, and regulatory compliance. On your resume, emphasize any experience with unionized environments, managing large frontline teams, and overseeing import/export or airside operations. If you’ve previously worked in transportation or warehouse management, highlight specific achievements like process improvements, safety record improvements, or budget management wins that align with this position.
Resume & Application Tips: Before applying, tailor your resume to match the job description. Include keywords like gateway operations, CBSA compliance, and Collective Agreement that appear in the posting. Quantify your achievements where possible (e.g., “managed a team of 100+ staff” or “reduced operational deficiencies by 20% through proactive auditing”). Write a brief cover letter expressing your genuine interest in DHL Express and why you’re well-suited to lead gateway operations in Hamilton. Double-check your application for spelling errors and ensure your contact information is current.
Interview Preparation: If selected for an interview, research DHL Express‘s global network, logistics operations, and company values beforehand. Prepare specific examples using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to demonstrate your leadership, compliance management, and operational planning skills. Common questions may include scenarios about managing labour relations, handling regulatory audits, or leading teams under time pressure. Dress professionally for a logistics management interview, arrive 10–15 minutes early, and bring copies of your resume. Prepare thoughtful questions about team structure, operational challenges, and growth opportunities within DHL. After the interview, send a thank-you email within 24 hours reiterating your interest in the position.