Head of Operational Planning

MAG; Manchester; On-site; GBP 150,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading airport operator in Manchester is seeking a Head of Operational Planning to oversee the operational strategy for Manchester Airport. This role includes leading a team and ensuring planning alignment with stakeholders. Candidates must have experience in aviation planning and strong analytical skills. Benefits include performance bonuses, pension contributions, and flexible working options. Join us to help shape an exceptional travel experience for our passengers.

Benefits

Bonus scheme

10% company contribution pension

Car allowance

Private medical scheme

25 days holiday plus bank holidays

Free parking

Subsidised public transport

Company discounts

2 volunteering days per year

Free VirtualGP service

Care Concierge service

Qualifications

• Experience leading a planning team within an operational organisation.
• Strong knowledge of airport planning systems.
• Highly analytical, using data to inform planning decisions.
• Excellent communication skills for stakeholder management.

Responsibilities

• Accountable for Manchester Airport's operational plan.
• Lead a team overseeing asset and capacity planning.
• Work with senior stakeholders to align and deliver plans.

Skills

Leadership

Analytical skills

Stakeholder management

Communication

Education

Degree in planning or relevant technical discipline

Tools

Chroma

Copenhagen Optimization

OSP

Job description

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 VirtualGP 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 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