Sikander Sheikh

Led the end-to-end setup and successful launch of Arimas’s premium CIP Airport Terminal and state-of-the-art Cargo Warehouse, establishing two high-profile aviation facilities from inception to full operational readiness.

• Launched an exclusive CIP Terminal delivering seamless, private, and hassle-free airport journeys for senior government officials, diplomats, corporate clients, and VIP travellers.
• Designed and coordinated end-to-end arrival and departure services, ensuring exceptional standards of customer service, privacy, security, and operational efficiency.
• Established a modern Cargo Warehouse supporting domestic and international airlines with export and import handling, storage, and logistics services.
• Developed dedicated general-cargo storage and advanced cold-room facilities for the compliant handling and storage of pharmaceutical and perishable shipments.
• Coordinated operational processes, infrastructure, stakeholder requirements, and service standards to ensure smooth launch and sustained operational performance.
• Directed successful marketing campaigns, increasing brand visibility and market penetration.
• Evaluated departmental performance and developed improvements to key operations.
• Implemented cutting-edge technology solutions that automated key processes, improving accuracy and speed.

Hospitality & Tourism Consultant | Tanzania | 2023–2024

Provided advisory and consultancy services to hotel and tourism businesses in Tanzania, supporting owners and leadership teams in strengthening guest experience, operational performance, and profitability.

• Developed pricing strategies, service standards, and operational plans aligned with market demand and commercial objectives.
• Advised on interior design concepts and property enhancements to improve brand appeal, guest comfort, and competitive positioning.
• Created marketing and customer-engagement initiatives to increase visibility, attract target markets, and support revenue growth.
• Prepared and supported the implementation of end-to-end improvement plans across operations, service delivery, and guest experience.
• Helped clients establish a strong foundation for sustainable growth, higher customer satisfaction, and improved profitability.

• Managing overall cargo operations and airport facilitation at AFS for several international airlines.
• Ensured the movement of all import and export cargo is met with safe handling parameters and delivery timelines.
• Coordinated with customs and immigration authorities to enhance customer service delivery while maintaining safety and security standards.
• Liaised with Civil Aviation Management on matters related to Aircraft landing and parking approvals, specific types of aircraft requiring specific parking slots.
• Formulated the Local Emergency Response Manual for the company and ensured annual exercises were conducted in conjunction with Civil Aviation, Airport Authority, Fire and rescue teams, State Police, State hospitals, and other agencies concerned with emergency procedures.
• Led establishment of a state-of-the-art temperature control warehouse, promoting its usage during COVID for safe movement and storage of vaccines and medication.
• Monitoring gaps in operational and service delivery, and implementing Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to address them timely.
• Devising and altering operational strategies to meet the most suited performance requirements.
• Achieving budgets, guest standards & ratings as per company guidelines and making improvements.
• Facilitated formulation of company's medium and long-term strategic plans, business objectives, and product and service enhancement initiatives.
• Planning and framing of the company's Quality Management System.

• Headed Qatar Airways operations as Airport Services Manager at DAR es Salaam International Airport.
• Led and managed station operations and handled aircraft types: Airbus (320/321/787/330/350), Boeing 787, 777.
• Managed safety and security policies & procedures and coordinated with all agencies (Airport Authority, Immigration, Customs, Civil Aviation, etc.) as part of station head responsibilities and as AOC chairman.
• Maintained optimum operational standards of safety and compliance, including adherence to all relevant regulatory rules and regulations.
• Collaborated with Airport Authority, Customs, Airport Security, and Immigration Management to ensure the airports meet service delivery standards and comply with all safety and security regulations set by various Aviation Authorities (ICAO, IATA, Civil Aviation).
• Managed the start-up of 2 additional new stations in Tanzania (Kilimanjaro and Zanzibar).
• Spearheaded setup and operational launch of airport operations, cargo warehousing facilities, and premium lounges across key cities in East Africa, ensuring seamless integration into existing services.
• Collaborated with Civil Aviation Management to resolve landing and parking approval issues, ensuring compliance with specific aircraft requirements and optimising allocated parking spaces.
• Conducted thorough assessments to identify potential risks and vulnerabilities across various aspects of the overall Airport functionality.