Steve Hughes appointed as new MD for GAC UK
Veteran air cargo professional takes charge as long-serving UK head steps down after a decade in the role
Steve Hughes, MD for Globe Air Cargo UK
Steve Hughes has been appointed Managing Director of Globe Air Cargo (GAC) UK, succeeding Michelle House, who is retiring at the end of the year after ten years leading the ECS Group’s UK subsidiary.
ECS Group announced that Hughes joins GAC UK from Wexco Cargo GSSA, where he spent seven years as Managing Director. He brings with him more than two decades of experience in the air cargo industry.
Hughes began his career in air cargo in 1998 with British Airways Cargo, holding several roles that helped him build a strong understanding of the sector. In 2005, he moved to Virgin Atlantic Cargo, where he spent 12 years in positions covering regional sales and customer management across EMEA and the Americas, as well as global key account management. In 2017, he transitioned from airline operations to GSSA management, using his commercial and operational background to align airline and forwarder requirements.
Commenting on his appointment, Hughes said he was pleased to join ECS Group and Globe Air Cargo UK at a strong point for the business. He said his focus would be on continuing to grow relationships and business, while using the group’s data and digital capabilities to improve efficiency and offer customised solutions to customers.
Jean Ceccaldi, Chief Executive Officer of ECS Group, said Hughes brings valuable experience from both airline and GSSA environments. He added that Hughes’s focus on customer service, process optimisation and sales performance aligns closely with ECS Group’s values and future strategy. Ceccaldi also thanked Michelle House for her contribution to Globe Air Cargo UK over the past decade and wished her a happy retirement after 44 years in the industry.
To ensure a smooth transition, Hughes has been working alongside House since October 2025, ahead of formally taking over in December 2025. Hughes said he appreciated the opportunity to receive a handover from House, noting her strong leadership and the work done to ensure continuity for carriers and customers.
