Head of Integrated Operations Centre - Air Cargo

LOGISTICS EXECUTIVE GROUP; Dubai; On-site; AED 435,000 - 532,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading cargo airline based in Dubai is seeking an experienced Head of Integrated Operations Centre. This role requires overseeing flight planning, managing ground operations, and ensuring compliance with safety standards. The ideal candidate has over 10 years of experience in airline operations with a proven track record in leadership and operational excellence. The position offers competitive compensation and the chance to shape the future of cargo operations.

Qualifications

• Minimum 10 years of progressive experience in airline operations or large-scale logistics.
• 5+ years in a leadership capacity.
• Strong understanding of aviation standards and regulatory frameworks.

Responsibilities

• Oversee flight planning, scheduling, and crew rostering.
• Manage aircraft turnaround processes and terminal logistics.
• Lead network performance and resolve operational disruptions.

Skills

Airline operations experience

Cargo control expertise

Leadership skills

Stakeholder engagement

Operational transformation

Job description

Head of Integrated Operations Centre - Air Cargo

Job Openings Head of Integrated Operations Centre - Air Cargo

About the job Head of Integrated Operations Centre - Air Cargo

Our client is a dynamic cargo airline operating across The Middle East, Africa and Asia regional markets, with a fleet including B767F & B737F (NG) aircraft. The airline is scaling up its operations, driving higher reliability, safety compliance and commercial maturity, and is set on transforming its Maintenance & Engineering function into a standalone, externally‑competitive MRO business.

They seek a highly experienced Head of Integrated Operations Centre will drive the operational heartbeat of the airline delivering seamless cargo movements, robust control of disruptions, optimal aircraft utilisation and best‑in‑class performance. You

The Head IOC will partner across network planning, ground operations, cargo handling, load control, flight dispatch and regulatory compliance to reinforce a competitive edge and growth ambitions.

Flight & Crew Operations Management

• Oversee flight planning, scheduling, dispatch, and crew rostering across global cargo routes
• Ensure robust real‑time flight monitoring and in‑air operational control across all time zones
• Maintain direct communication protocols with flight crew for timely updates and instructions

Ground Operations & Terminal Services

• Manage aircraft turnaround processes including ground handling, equipment deployment, loading, and terminal logistics
• Coordinate all ramp operations (pushback, stairs, GSE usage) to support safe and timely aircraft movement
• Oversee customs, immigration, and airport authority coordination for seamless ground‑side execution

Network Control & Disruption Management

• Lead central command for network performance, proactively resolving disruptions (weather, technical, ATC, or regulatory)
• Issue operational alerts and daily reports, maintaining 24/7 situational awareness and escalation protocols
• Drive alignment between ground, air, and cargo teams to minimise impact and protect service continuity

Safety, Compliance & Communication

• Ensure full compliance with aviation safety standards, cargo security frameworks, and IATA regulations
• Monitor IOC adherence to SOPs, safety management systems, and quality assurance audits
• Oversee operational communication platforms including crew notifications, regulatory alerts, and network‑wide updates

Strategic Leadership & Operational Excellence

• Structure and lead a multi‑disciplinary team including duty controllers, load planners, and network desk personnel
• Drive operational improvements through data analytics, real‑time dashboards, and systems modernisation
• Partner with planning, commercial, and compliance teams to future‑prove IOC capabilities and support growth ambitions

Qualifications & Experience

• Minimum 10 years of progressive experience in airline operations, cargo control, or large‑scale logistics, with 5+ years in a leadership capacity
• Proven expertise in integrated flight operations including dispatch, ground handling, crew control, and load planning
• Strong understanding of global aviation standards, safety systems, and regulatory frameworks (ICAO, IATA, EASA)
• Demonstrated experience managing high‑volume, 24/7 operational environments, ideally in hub‑based Middle East settings
• Track record in leading operational transformations, tech upgrades, and process optimisation within aviation or transport sectors
• Excellent stakeholder engagement skills with ability to drive cross‑functional coordination and real‑time decision‑making
• Willingness to operate in shifts and maintain availability for senior‑level oversight in a continuous operations environment