Airport Operations Director

Carrington West; Doncaster; On-site; GBP 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company is seeking an Operations Director in South Yorkshire to oversee the reopening of Doncaster Sheffield Airport. This role involves managing airport operations, ensuring compliance with aviation regulations, and leading a team to enhance passenger experience. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in airport management, strategic planning, and a strong understanding of safety standards.

Qualifications

• In-depth understanding of CAA regulations and safety standards.
• Proven experience in airport operations, preferably UK.
• Experience with aerodrome certification requirements.

Responsibilities

• Lead airport operations team including security and customer service.
• Manage relationships with airlines and regulatory agencies.
• Oversee safety and security protocols.

Skills

Leadership

Problem-Solving

Decision-Making

Communication

Analytical Skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in aviation management

Advanced degrees

Job description

An exciting opportunity has arisen for an Operations Director to come and join a busy client in South Yorkshire to support the mobilisation arrangements to reopen Doncaster Sheffield Airport.

Key Responsibilities of the Operations Director are:

Initially the focus of this role will be to lead and support the reopen process as such the level of operational oversight will be limited. However, the post holder must have experience of the following aspects and in due course may be required to undertake some or all of these aspects:

Lead and manage the airport operations team, including security, maintenance, customer service, and administrative staff.
Develop, implement, and monitor operational policies and procedures in compliance with UK aviation regulations and standards.
Manage the relationship with airlines, ground services, security, emergency response teams, and regulatory agencies to facilitate smooth flight operations and passenger flow.
Responsible for overall safety and security protocols, ensuring adherence to TSA standards and UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) regulations.
Manage airport facilities, including runways, terminals, and support infrastructure, ensuring proper maintenance, safety, and upgrades.
Take the lead in responding to all emergency situations and coordinate response efforts to minimize disruptions and ensure safety.
Prepare and manage budgets related to airport operations, ensuring cost-effective and sustainable practices.
·Keep up to date with industry trends, technological advancements, and regulatory changes to keep Doncaster Sheffield Airport competitive and compliant.

Aerodrome Certification:

• Lead efforts to achieve and maintain aerodrome certification standards, ensuring compliance with all relevant UK and international regulations.
• Coordinate with certification bodies and regulatory agencies during audits and inspections.
• Implement necessary safety, operational, and infrastructure improvements to meet certification requirements.
• Develop and maintain documentation, procedures, and training programs aligned with certification standards.

Strategic Initiatives:

• Drive route network expansion and airline partnerships to increase passenger and cargo traffic.
• Implement innovative technologies to improve operational efficiency, security screening, and passenger experience.
• Develop sustainability programs to reduce the airport's environmental impact.
• Foster community engagement and regional economic development initiatives.

The experienced candidate will have skills and knowledge in:

• Bachelor's degree in aviation management, business administration, or a related field; advanced degrees are advantageous
• In-depth understanding of UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) regulations, safety standards, and security procedures.
• Experience of aerodrome certification requirements, audit processes, and compliance management.
• Proven experience in airport operations, management, or a related field, preferably within UK airports.
• Proven experience managing airside, landside, terminal and emergency operations.
• Significant progressive responsible airport management experience, including supervisory roles.
• Expert knowledge of airport infrastructure, maintenance, and technological innovations in aviation.
• Strong awareness of environmental sustainability practices relevant to airports.
• Strong leadership and team management skills.
• Excellent communication, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.
• Demonstrated success in strategic planning, operational management, and team leadership.
• Experience in capital projects, construction or infrastructure planning.
• Contract negotiations and vendor management is desirable.
• Analytical skills to monitor performance metrics and implement continuous improvements.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure and handle emergency situations confidently.
• May require on call availability and presence during emergencies or irregular operations.
• Ability to pass background check and maintain security clearance.

For a full description and further information on the role, please call Harriet Simmonds at Carrington West on 02393 876051.

FOOTNOTE:

If you feel that you are right for this role technically, but the rate, location or seniority does not suit you specifically then please still feel free to send us your CV. We constantly recruit for roles very similar to this one at all levels UK Wide. We are always keen to chat with you discreetly about your employment situation.

Even if you are happy in your current role for now, we always welcome calls from Highways, Traffic & Transportation professionals keen to make their introductions for future months or years. Our specialist team has a combined 40+ years' experience in this market. Please call Harriet at Carrington West on 02393 876051 for more information.

By applying for this position you are agreeing for Carrington West to hold and process your personal data in accordance with our Data Protection Policy. Your data will be shared with third party clients specifically relevant to any roles you have applied for. If at any stage you wish to withdraw your consent please email.