Hellmann appoints Bartels to lead airfreight strategy in West Europe
Hellmann appoints Robert Bartels to lead West Europe airfreight with a focus on growth, sustainability, and digitalisation
Hellmann Worldwide Logistics has named Robert Bartels as Vice President Airfreight West Europe, effective May 1, 2025. The strategic appointment signals Hellmann’s continued focus on strengthening its international airfreight business through operational excellence, sustainability, and digitalisation.
With over a decade of experience in airfreight logistics, the 35-year-old Bartels brings fresh leadership to a sector marked by complexity and transformation. He most recently served as Airfreight Branch Director at DB Schenker in Amsterdam, a key European airfreight hub. Bartels will remain based in Amsterdam, underlining the city’s logistical importance and its role in Hellmann’s regional growth strategy.
In his new role, Bartels is tasked with overseeing both operational performance and business development for airfreight across Western Europe. His appointment comes at a pivotal time for the industry, as European airfreight navigates shifting trade patterns, increased pressure for sustainable logistics solutions, and rapid digital innovation.
“With Robert Bartels, we have gained a proven airfreight expert who will drive our business in West Europe forward with a fresh perspective and a clear focus on operational excellence and sustainable growth,” said Jens Tarnowski, Regional CEO West Europe at Hellmann.
Martin Habisreitinger, Chief Operating Officer Airfreight at Hellmann, added: “Robert not only brings extensive expertise, but also new impetus to further develop our airfreight business in the region. His leadership will be critical as we implement future-ready solutions for our customers.”
Hellmann is leveraging this leadership shift to support its broader ambition of building a digitally empowered and customer-centric airfreight network. With Bartels at the helm, the company aims to further integrate digital tools into its service model and deliver more tailored, efficient logistics offerings.
Headquartered in Osnabrueck, Hellmann Worldwide Logistics operates across 57 countries, moving over 20 million shipments annually. With EUR 3.5 billion in annual sales and a strong presence in air, sea, road, and rail logistics, Hellmann continues to invest in leadership and innovation to meet evolving global supply chain demands.
