As Swissport approaches its 30^th anniversary, we’re celebrating our people and their commitment to excellence that inspires us all to be better every day. Every one of us is on a journey in our career, and our Meet the Faces Behind Swissport series is all about sharing the stories that led people to Swissport. It’s about how they apply their expertise and build partnerships with our customers, driving performance and inspiring change in their teams or the wider business.

Our spotlight shines on a special employee this month. Edith, a Centralized Services Manager based in Nairobi, Kenya, who recently received a Women in Leadership scholarship from Women in Aviation International (WAI) and Harvard University. The program brings together female leaders from all over the global aviation industry for executive education at one of the world’s most prestigious academic institutions.

About Edith

Edith always wanted to work in aviation. Growing up, she soon learned that there’s more to the industry than pilots and flight attendants, and she found her own way through flight dispatch. She later worked as a finance clerk at ICAO, which gave Edith first-hand insight into humanitarian aviation and air navigation services.

After studying for a postgraduate degree in Air Transport Management, she joined East Africa’s first low-cost airline. Their connection to Swissport eventually inspired her to make the switch, where she has been ever since. Her career has evolved numerous times, but Edith says it’s always been about people.

“I spent several years in commercial management, acting as the bridge between our clients and the business. The role opened doors into rooms where big decisions were being made. I was encouraged to share my perspective, and was given ownership of major projects. That culture of trust has been the biggest driver of my growth. Today, I lead the incredible teams that handle load control and cargo back-office functions. Making that shift has been challenging but eye-opening,” she tells us.

Harvard University

Moving into people leadership made Edith realize that a changing skillset was required. “Success was no longer just about growing the business; suddenly, I had a team to develop, mentor, and back. That kind of responsibility required a different level of leadership judgment,” she notes.

Recognising the opportunity to continue developing as a leader, Edith enrolled in the Harvard–WAI Emerging Leaders Program. She saw it as a chance to strengthen her leadership capabilities, learn from experienced professionals, and connect with other women building careers across the aviation industry.

The programme focuses on subjects such as executive communication, negotiation and strategy, giving participants practical tools to handle tough decisions and navigate uncertainty. It also provided a valuable networking platform for female leaders from across the world.

For Edith, the greatest gift the programme gave was confidence. She says the experience “gave me the right language and frameworks to build on what years on the job had already taught me. It also reminded me that when you create an environment where people believe in themselves and are challenged to step up, the performance follows naturally.”

One of the lessons that has stayed with her came from the negotiation course. “We looked at how looking past what’s right in front of you to understand people's underlying motivations can completely flip a conversation. Whether you're managing a team or negotiating a business deal, figuring out what truly matters to the other person builds much stronger relationships,” Edith explains.

Applying the learnings to Swissport

After the program, stepping back into the world of aviation felt like a new frontier..”

Edith has noticed herself becoming much more direct and concise in her communication. “I’m stopping myself from apologizing during tough conversations especially when fixing process failures. Holding people accountable is what actually creates lasting improvement- an apology alone doesn't change behavior” she tells us.

The program also reminded her that listening is about much more than just hearing words. It’s about paying attention to context, behavior, and what isn't being said. For her, this has been incredibly helpful for leading a multigenerational team.

It also highlighted “some of the unconscious habits many of us pick up like downplaying our own wins not to ruffle feathers or feeling like we have to be overly tough to be taken seriously.” For Edith, the program reinforced that authentic leadership isn't a weakness. “I can be genuine, bring my real personality to work, and still lead with strength.”

Personal growth

If Edith could share one piece of advice with her colleagues, it would be that learning is non-negotiable. “Our industry changes fast and staying curious keeps you adaptable and open to new ways of doing things. Investing in your own growth is the best thing you can do for yourself and for the company.”

This is ultimately what the Harvard–WAI program delivered for Edith. She jokes that she gets to say “I went to Harvard.” Looking ahead, Edith sees so much potential for African aviation. The continent is entering a really exciting phase where better connectivity and trade can unlock massive growth.

 “Recent discussions at the recent African Air Transport Convention in Togo really hit home for me that we are at a turning point”, Edith tells us. “Swissport is in a great position to help shape that future, and I can't wait to play a part in driving sustainable growth across the continent.”

Away from the airport, Edith finds time to relax with her family. “My parents say home is where no invite is ever needed and there’s always food” she jokes. Music, particularly classical compositions always put her in the right frame of mind for work or study. Gustav Holst’s ‘The Planets’ is one of her favorite and most recognizable pieces.

Our Meet The Faces Series 

Stay tuned for more stories in our Meet the Faces Behind Swissport series, where we showcase the incredible people behind our business. Want to see what life at Swissport is like? Visit Our People to learn more.