Digby's Story: From Rural Australia to Managing Operations in New York City

Every career in aviation has its own flight path, but Digby’s took off at full speed! Today, as Manager Operations at JFK Airport, he is responsible for Cargolux operations at one of the largest airports in the USA. Yet, his journey began thousands of kilometers away in the quiet countryside of Australia. As part of the Cargolux family, he has not only navigated the challenges of a fast-paced industry but also contributed to groundbreaking projects and humanitarian missions. Let’s retrace the steps of his career which have taken him across continents. 

2013: The Flight Path Begins

Digby’s journey into aviation started long before he started in an airline. Growing up in rural Australia, he found magic in the long-haul flights his family took to London. “I always dreamed of working for Qantas” he says with a laugh. But like many great journeys, his took an unexpected turn. 

That turn led him to Europe. In 2013, Digby left Australia to study aviation management in Germany. A year later, he was diving into a master’s program and writing a thesis on airline brand loyalty across Europe and the U.S. “I wanted to understand what makes passengers stick with an airline,” he recalls. Little did he know, he was charting a course for his future role at Cargolux. 

2017: A New Horizon in Luxembourg

Graduation brought opportunity—and a leap of faith. Digby joined Cargolux in 2017 as part of the network punctuality team at the Luxembourg Headquarters. “I thought I knew aviation,” he says. “But working here? It was like learning a whole new language.” His role required meticulous coordination; he spent his days tracking delays, communicating with international station managers, and ensuring smooth operations. 

The Joy of Good Guidance

From day one, Digby felt the company’s investment in its people. “My first boss didn’t just want me to follow orders. He wanted me to understand how the whole system worked,” Digby explains. That encouragement fostered learning and growth, shaping his career trajectory for years to come.

Making a Lasting Mark at Luxembourg’s HQ

In Luxembourg, Digby co-developed the TEAM Turnaround System, a groundbreaking tool that helped streamline LUX Hub Operations. His efforts earned him a trip to China to present the project and that trip became a defining moment. “It was my first big project, and seeing it in action was surreal,” he shares. 

2020: Challenges and Triumphs in Chicago

Three years later, Digby took the next big step. Since childhood, he had dreamed of living in the United States. In 2020, he relocated to Chicago as Assistant Operations Manager, ready to embrace a new challenge. “To me, it’s one of the most unique countries. Economically speaking, it’s the powerhouse. You have every business opportunity you could want here. Culturally, it’s very diverse and I love it. Growing up in a small town in Australia, I didn’t get that exposure. I’m glad that working for Cargolux gives me the opportunity to explore the world.” 

Strength in Connection

Embracing a new role in a new city and on a new continent during the pandemic was brutal. Social distancing and masks sometimes made it difficult to bond with local colleagues. But Cargolux ensured its team remained connected. “The support system here is unmatched. No matter where you are, there’s always someone to reach out to,” Digby says.

A Milestone Moment

In Chicago, Digby led the opening of the Rockford Station, a pivotal step in adapting to the Covid-19 pandemic challenges. “The day we saw the first Cargolux 747 land was unforgettable,” he says. The project symbolized resilience and adaptability in the face of unprecedented obstacles. 

2022: Hustling in the Big Apple

By 2022, Digby had climbed another step of the ladder, becoming the Operations Manager at JFK Airport. “New York is unlike anywhere else,” he says. “Every flight brings something new, from priceless artwork to massive aircraft engines.” The city’s energy suited his adaptable nature, pushing him to innovate and excel. 

A Helping Hand Across Borders

Digby credits Cargolux’s Team Leader Program and most recently the Lift Off Program for preparing him to navigate the high stakes of JFK’s operations. “It’s a development program for people who want to become managers or further develop their leadership skills,” he explains. “It really helped me learn how to step up as a leader and supervisor. The programs include colleagues from all over the world—Luxembourg, the U.S., Azerbaijan, and many other stations—giving me a fresh, global perspective. What I also like is that this program is available to all staff, not just to managers, but to anyone who wants to further develop themselves in the company.”

From Logistics to Humanitarian Wins

In New York, Digby’s team handled the station’s first shipment of a 26,000-kilo container, an example of logistics and teamwork. But his proudest moment? Organizing a humanitarian flight to Turkey after the devastating 2023 earthquake. “That’s when you realize this job isn’t just about cargo—it’s about making a difference,” he reflects. 

 

2024: Looking Ahead

Now, with over seven years at Cargolux, Digby’s career is still climbing.  “The world is my workplace,” he says, setting his sights on regional management.  

His journey showcases more than just personal ambition; it underscores the importance of a company that values growth, innovation, connection, and collaboration among colleagues. At Cargolux, connections between colleagues are key to success in an international environment.