Duty Manager

Aviation & Travel; Hookwood; On-site; GBP 38,000 - 46,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading aviation services provider is seeking a Duty Manager to oversee operations at Gatwick Airport. You will ensure compliance with policies, manage a large workforce, and achieve performance targets. Ideal candidates will possess strong leadership skills and experience in ground handling practices. The role offers competitive pay and numerous employee benefits, including a 24/7 GP service and discounts.

Benefits

Free confidential 24/7 GP service

Hundreds of discounts

Enhanced pension scheme

24/7 employee support service

Qualifications

• Proven leadership with a track record of achieving key performance targets.
• Familiarity with ground handling practices preferred.

Responsibilities

• Manage day‑to‑day operations, ensuring compliance with policies.
• Develop and implement processes to maximise colleague utilisation.
• Ensure on‑time performance targets set by customers are met.

Skills

Strong management knowledge and experience

Excellent interpersonal and communication skills

Flexibility to adapt to changing operational needs

Job description

Pay Rate: £45,492.58 Grade: L
Contract Type: Permanent (Full-Time)
Shift patterns: 4 on 4 off days (6am - 6pm) and nights (6pm - 6am)
Location: Gatwick Airport - RH6 0JW

Applications after the week commencing 1st December 2025 may no longer be considered. Interviews are provisionally scheduled during that week. We review applications continuously and may close the application period ahead of the provisional interview date. Submit early to be considered.

PLEASE NOTE: The role is based within an airport. A security/background check will be required if you are successful.

Summary

We're seeking a Duty Manager to play an integral role in our aviation contract, delivering a first‑class service and achieving fantastic results.

Responsibilities

• Manage day‑to‑day operations, ensuring compliance with company policies and procedures.
• Develop and implement consistent processes to maximise colleague utilisation while minimising staff turnover and absenteeism.
• Conduct comprehensive appraisals and performance management in line with the company handbook.
• Facilitate daily shift handovers and conduct face‑to‑face team performance discussions.
• Keep all staff informed of operational issues, company updates, and station operational notices.
• Collaborate effectively with colleagues and liaise with the Assistant Operations Manager (APM) to support cross‑departmental operations.
• Ensure on‑time performance targets set by customers are consistently met.
• Uphold safety standards by completing audits using iAuditor and raising General Safety Reports (GSRs).
• Foster a culture of safety, ensuring compliance with the Health & Safety at Work Act 1974 and its revisions.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with third‑party providers.
• Always represent the company in a professional manner.
• Perform any other reasonable duties as requested during shifts.

Qualifications & Experience

• Strong management knowledge and experience.
• Ability to inspire, lead, and motivate a large workforce.
• Familiarity with ground handling practices (baggage handling, cabin appearance, and airside safety) – preferred.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
• Proven leadership with a track record of achieving key performance targets.
• Strength in driving policies and procedures.
• Flexibility to adapt to changing operational needs.

Security Process to Work within Aviation and Travel at DHL

• Provide five years of address history.
• Provide five years of reference history (employment/education/benefit claim/character).
• Obtain a full airside ID.
• Pass a pre‑employment Drug and Alcohol test.

Benefits

• Free confidential 24/7 GP service.
• Hundreds of discounts (including retail, childcare & gym).
• Affordable loans & enhanced pension scheme.
• 24/7 employee support service for you (and family) with access to free counselling and more.
• Competitive pay rates.

Diversity & Inclusion

We will ensure that all our resourcing activities are fair, transparent and consistent across the UK. Find out more about our global approach to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging: https://careers.dhl.com/global/en/diversity

Ready to Launch Your Career?

Did you know that DHL, an award‑winning leading supply chain business, also provides ground handling services at many UK airports? We’re seeking a Duty Manager to play an integral role in our aviation contract, delivering a first‑class service and achieving fantastic results.