Duty Manager Airside Operations

The Manager Airside Operations is responsible for leading and managing the Airside Operations team to ensure the safe, secure, and efficient movement of aircraft, vehicles, and personnel across the airport. The role oversees airside activities through effective planning, direction, and control, while ensuring compliance with national and international aviation standards, company policies, and regulatory requirements. The position acts as a representative of senior management in airport operations, providing 24/7 operational oversight of airside, terminal, and landside/access systems. The role also supports strategic planning, budgeting, operational performance, safety management, and emergency response activities.

Responsibilities

• Ensure compliance with company policies, procedures, management systems, and regulatory requirements.
• Maintain all certifications required by regulatory authorities such as GCAA and Abu Dhabi EHSMS.
• Plan, implement, and monitor airside operational and preventive maintenance programs.
• Lead and supervise the Airside Operations team, ensuring operational efficiency and adherence to standards.
• Ensure staff are trained, competent, and familiar with standard operating procedures.
• Manage workforce planning and resource allocation to support daily operations, disruptions, and emergencies.
• Participate in airport emergency committees and ensure team readiness for emergency response plans.
• Promote continuous improvement initiatives to enhance operational performance.
• Act on behalf of the Head of Department when required and attend operational and safety committees.
• Collaborate with stakeholders, customers, contractors, and service providers to resolve operational issues and ensure compliance with standards.
• Conduct site inspections for new projects and provide guidance on airside safety and regulatory requirements.
• Monitor operational logs, analyze performance, and prepare management reports.
• Ensure safe and efficient operation of aircraft movements through effective supervision of subordinate staff.
• Develop and deliver induction, recurrent, and specialized training programs.
• Provide leadership, direction, coaching, and performance management to the team.
• Support and oversee Parking Control Representatives and airport access operations when required.
• Evaluate and manage planned and unplanned airside, terminal, and landside closures or restrictions.
• Coordinate responses to emergencies, adverse weather, construction activities, and other operational disruptions.
• Ensure compliance with Health & Safety policies and promote safe working practices.
• Communicate effectively with senior management, regulatory authorities, government agencies, emergency services, and stakeholders.
• Escalate high-risk, safety, and operational issues to senior management for approval and guidance.
• Liaise with HR Business Partners on departmental HR matters.
• Participate in strategic planning and annual budgeting for the Airside Operations function.
• Undertake additional duties as assigned to support organizational objectives.

Requirements and Skills

Education

• Bachelors Degree in a relevant field.

Experience

• Minimum 7 years of Airside Operations experience in a similar or larger airport environment.
• Experience leading and managing operational teams.
• Experience in a management role within a service delivery organization.
• Experience working within civil aviation regulations and statutory requirements.
• Strong understanding of airside operations and technical competencies required for airport operations.
• Experience building and maintaining effective relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
• Valid UAE Driving License.

Technical Knowledge

• Knowledge of ICAO Annex 14 and other national and international regulations related to Airside Operations.
• Understanding of airport safety management systems, compliance requirements, and operational standards.

Key Skills & Competencies

• Airside Operations & Safety Management Expertise
• Leadership, Decision-Making & Crisis Response
• Operational Planning, Coordination & Resource Management
• Stakeholder Management & Cross-Functional Collaboration
• Risk Assessment, Regulatory Compliance & Continuous Improvement
• Strong Communication and Interpersonal Skills
• Digital Literacy and Technology Awareness
• Problem Solving and Analytical Thinking
• Team Development and Performance Management
• Emergency and Incident Management