Head of Operational Planning

MANCHESTER AIRPORT PLC; Manchester; On-site; GBP 150,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading airport operator seeks a Head of Operational Planning to oversee the operational plan at Manchester Airport. This role involves leading a team and creating plans for key passenger touchpoints while collaborating with stakeholders. The ideal candidate will have experience in leading teams, knowledge of airport planning systems, and strong analytical skills. They will also play a key role in ensuring operational efficiency and meeting strategic objectives.

Benefits

Bonus scheme

10% company contribution pension

Car allowance

Private medical scheme

25 days holiday plus bank holidays

Free parking

Subsidised public transport

Huge range of company discounts

2 volunteering days per year

Free Virtual GP service

Care Concierge service

Qualifications

• Experience leading a planning team within an operational organisation, preferably in aviation.
• Strong knowledge of airport planning systems is desirable.
• Ability to use data for informed planning decisions.

Responsibilities

• Accountable for the operational plan of Manchester Airport.
• Oversee asset and capacity planning for the passenger journey.
• Lead a team to create operational plans for key touchpoints.

Skills

Leading a planning team

Knowledge of airport planning systems

Analytical skills

Stakeholder management

Excellent communication skills

Education

Degree in planning or relevant technical discipline

Tools

Chroma

Copenhagen Optimization

OSP

Job description

Summary

Head of Operational Planning

Based at Manchester Airport

Permanent position

Competitive salary

Why MAG?

Every year, Manchester Airport connects over 30 million passengers with more than 200 destinations across the globe. As the third largest airport in the UK, Manchester is also in the top 20 airports in Europe. Part of the largest UK owned airport operator group, MAG, Manchester Airport supports over 19,000 jobs onsite and generates around £7.75bn each year for the region.

Sustainability is one of our core values, and it shapes everything we do. We're committed to protecting the environment and supporting our local communities. Our programmes include airport and airline decarbonisation, comprehensive education, skills and employment support and community engagement initiatives including volunteering opportunities.

At MAG, we recognise creating a first-class journey for our customers starts by creating a first-class career journey for our colleagues and we are committed to building inclusive environments in which our people can thrive. You’ll also have access to some great benefits including:

• Bonus scheme
• 10% company contribution pension
• Car allowance
• Private medical scheme
• 25 days holiday plus bank holidays
• Free parking
• Subsidised public transport
• Huge range of company discounts
• 2 volunteering days per year
• Free Virtual GP service, available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
• Care Concierge service

The role

The Head of Operational Planning is accountable for Manchester Airport’s operational plan, overseeing asset and capacity planning across the full passenger journey within a D-1 to 12-month horizon. As part of the Airport and Asset Development function, the role works closely with senior stakeholders across Planning, Commercial, and Operations to ensure plans are aligned and deliverable.

You will be lead a team of three direct reports, responsible for the creation of operational plans across key passenger touchpoints including check-in, baggage, gates, stands, car parks and surface access. The role also involves working with 3rd parties such as airline and ground handlers to agree on seasonal plans ensuring effective and efficient delivery.

What will make you successful in the role?

• Experience leading a planning team within an operational organisation; aviation or airport experience desirable
• Strong knowledge of airport planning systems such as Chroma, Copenhagen Optimization, or OSP
• Highly analytical, with the ability to use data and insight to inform planning decisions
• Skilled at translating complex data into clear, high-level outputs for senior audiences
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with proven stakeholder management and influencing ability
• Degree qualified (or equivalent) in a planning or relevant technical discipline