Kester Meijer, a key member of the KLM Cargo management team, is recognized for his profound expertise in the air cargo transportation sector, particularly in the areas of international sanctions and trade restrictions. With an extensive Air Cargo Supply Chain Logistics, Compliance, and ICT background, Kester excels in leveraging this unique skill set to engage effectively with global stakeholders and drive innovative concepts.

His work extends beyond traditional logistics; Kester advocates for the transformative power of Data, Artificial Intelligence, the Internet of Things, and Blockchain in the industry. He foresees a future where Smart Borders and advanced pre-check systems revolutionize the air cargo journey, ensuring efficiency and compliance with international regulatory standards.

Kester’s leadership was instrumental during the Covid crisis. Collaborating closely with the VP of Worldwide Ops and the Director of the Cargo Control Center, he played a crucial role in rapidly transforming global operations. He is responsible for the shift towards a more pre-emptive risk-based approach based on shipment and entity data, linking it to sanction regulations in multiple jurisdictions, which has been widely recognized by industry and international enforcement agencies like Dutch Customs, US CBP, BIS, OFAC, and the UN.

His areas of responsibility include compliance and safety and a deep involvement in customs, sanctions, security, and environmental issues. Kester is actively engaged in combating challenges like Counterfeit goods and Wildlife protection. He plays a vital role in the Cargo Knowledge Center and represents the industry in various forums, particularly in pioneering Artificial Intelligence Risk Advisory innovations. His expertise and actions in strategic, military, and dual-use goods, along with his keen insights into the latest developments in Sanctions, mark him as a leading figure in navigating the complex international landscape of trade restrictions in air cargo transportation.

Kester is an active member of ACSS, contributing to the ACSS Benelux Chapter and as a speaker at ACSS conferences. In addition, he promotes the ACSS membership, certification, and services at other critical international industry events and with his peers at other airlines. Within his company, multiple colleagues have become members (Benelux, Singapore) and acquire certification. He participated in the ACSS 5th Annual International Conference on Global Sanctions and Export Controls in New York in October 2023, demonstrating a keen interest in sharing knowledge and network opportunities.