BIFA extends a happy retirement to Robert Keane – a freight forwarding hero

After a remarkable 26-year career with the British International Freight Association (BIFA), Robert Keane officially retired in full from the association at the end of October 2025. Robert – known to many as Bob – was a familiar and respected figure across the UK freight forwarding community, personally visiting countless BIFA members and tirelessly championing the industry at home and abroad.

Robert originally joined the BIFA Secretariat full-time in 1999 as Managing Director, and brings with him a wealth of experience from previous roles at ASM (UK), Burlington Air Express and BAX Global.

Over the years, he has become the authority on BIFA’s standard trading conditions, co-developing both member training programs and BIFAlink’s ‘Know BIFA STC’ article series alongside former Managing Director Colin Beaumont.

In 2014, following the retirement of Peter Quantrill, Robert was appointed Director General of BIFA. Over the next eight years, he led the association with distinction, contributing to membership growth, increased industry recognition within government, and placing a renewed focus on attracting and developing the next generation of shipping professionals.

Robert has also played a vital role on the world stage. He chaired the International Air Transport Association (FIATA) Sea Working Group and was later appointed Secretary General of the International Air Transport Association (FIATA), promoting international cooperation on behalf of freight forwarders around the world. His work with the International Air Transport Association (FIATA) has seen him attend numerous World Congress events, fulfilling his personal ambition to travel while representing the UK’s freight interests globally.

Although Robert steps down as Director General at the end of 2022, he remains with BIFA as Director of International Relations, continuing to support the association and its members during the transition period.

Robert’s commitment to education and training in this sector has been unwavering. He championed career development and was a passionate advocate for promoting freight services as a rewarding career – something he experienced first-hand from his early days in the industry.

Reflecting on his retirement, Robert said: “As anyone heading into retirement will tell you, your working life seems to go by in the blink of an eye. My memories of 1970 are still sharp – as I remember my first day on the airport courier services as I wandered Heathrow from the airline hangars to the freight forwarders and to the long room at customs. Since then, the courier services have given me many wonderful memories and some great friends.

“We are part of a great community, and although our profile is often low, it is a sign that freight forwarders are carrying out their assigned tasks quietly, under the radar – which means we are doing the job well.”

Steve Parker, BIFA General Manager, added: “Bob was not only a co-worker but also a great friend, with a great sense of humor (we know he has a great sense of humour – he supports Brentford Football Club) which I have enjoyed for many years.

“I wish him a long, healthy and enjoyable retirement, as does everyone at BIFA – from the Secretariat to the Board.”