dnata appoints Managing Director for the Netherlands

dnata announced the appointment of Thiemo van Spellen as the new Managing Director of dnata Netherlands. The change took effect from 1 February 2026. 

In his new role, Thiemo’s priorities will include strengthening operational excellence and elevating customer partnerships across the business for both cargo and passenger operations – while developing the organizational capabilities needed to support dnata Netherlands’ next phase of growth. 

He brings broad international experience in logistics, commercial strategy and customer-centric growth. He joins dnata from Geopost (DPDgroup), where he served as Global Accounts Managing Director, leading global customer strategies and driving cross-border business expansion. 

dnata Netherlands plays a pivotal role in the wider dnata network, providing cargo, ground handling and passenger services at one of Europe’s busiest aviation hubs, Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (AMS). Over the past decade, dnata has steadily expanded its footprint in the country, strengthening its cargo and ground handling operations through innovative handling solutions and long-term airline partnerships at AMS. 

Thiemo succeeds Jan van Anrooy, who has retired from the business. 

Stewart Angus, dnata’s regional CEO for Europe, said, “I am delighted to welcome Thiemo to dnata Netherlands. Thiemo has an excellent combination of global commercial leadership expertise, operational insight, and a people-driven management style. His ability to cultivate strategic customer partnerships and lead transformation initiatives will be significant for dnata Netherlands as we continue to optimise our operations.

“We would like to thank Jan for his leadership over the past five years, including his work in developing our passenger handling business and supporting preparations for the opening of the dnata Cargo City Amsterdam.”

Thiemo van Spellen added, “I am pleased to be joining the dnata team at such an exciting time. dnata has an established reputation in cargo and ground handling, and I am keen to build on this strong foundation in the Netherlands by working closely with customers and partners to deliver value and sustainable growth.”