Airport Operations Manager

Placements24; Mtubatuba Local Municipality; Hybrid; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Performance-based incentives

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Airport Operations Manager to oversee Richards Bay Airport in KwaZulu-Natal. You will direct daily operations, ensure regulatory compliance, and drive efficiency across airside and terminal activities.

Lead a team, manage budgets, and coordinate with airlines, ATC and service providers to maintain safe, reliable and high-quality passenger services in a dynamic aviation environment.

Qualifications

• Minimum 7 years in airport operations management or related aviation field.
• Knowledge of ICAO, SACAA regulations and security procedures.
• Strong leadership and staff development skills.
• Experience with budgeting and resource planning.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management abilities.

Responsibilities

• Direct and manage all day-to-day airport operations, including airside and terminal activities.
• Ensure compliance with national/international aviation regulations and security protocols.
• Develop, implement and monitor procedures and metrics to improve efficiency.
• Lead a team of airport staff with training and performance management.
• Coordinate with airlines, ATC, ground handlers and stakeholders for smooth ops.
• Oversee emergency response planning and readiness for incidents.
• Manage operating budgets, resources, and procurement processes.
• Conduct site inspections to uphold safety and operational standards.
• Foster a culture of continuous improvement and customer service.

Skills

Leadership

Stakeholder management

Budgeting

Safety regulations

Crisis management

Communication

Airport software

Education

Bachelor's degree in Aviation Management

Master's degree (advantage)

Tools

Airport management software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a key operator within the South African aviation infrastructure, is seeking an experienced and dynamic Airport Operations Manager to oversee and coordinate all operational activities at the Richards Bay Airport . This pivotal role requires a strategic thinker with a proven ability to manage diverse teams and ensure the seamless, safe, and efficient functioning of airport services. You will be responsible for maintaining high operational standards, managing resources effectively, and ensuring compliance with all aviation regulations and security protocols. This is a significant leadership opportunity within the thriving aviation hub of Richards Bay , KwaZulu-Natal.

Key Responsibilities

• Direct and manage all day-to-day airport operational activities, including airside operations, terminal management, and passenger services.
• Ensure compliance with all national and international aviation regulations, safety standards, and security protocols.
• Develop, implement, and monitor operational procedures and performance metrics to optimize efficiency and service quality.
• Manage and lead a team of airport staff, providing guidance, training, and performance management.
• Coordinate with airlines, air traffic control, ground handling agents, and other stakeholders to ensure smooth airport operations.
• Oversee emergency response planning and execution, ensuring readiness for various scenarios.
• Manage operational budgets, resource allocation, and procurement processes.
• Conduct regular site inspections and audits to maintain safety and operational integrity.
• Foster a culture of continuous improvement and excellent customer service among airport personnel.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Aviation Management, Business Administration, Operations Management, or a related field.
• A Master's degree is an advantage.
• Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in airport operations management or a related field within the aviation industry.
• Demonstrated knowledge of airport operations, airside management, safety regulations (e.g., ICAO, SACAA), and security procedures.
• Proven leadership and team management skills with the ability to motivate and develop staff.
• Strong understanding of operational budgeting and financial management.
• Excellent problem-solving, decision-making, and crisis management abilities.
• Exceptional communication, negotiation, and stakeholder management skills.
• Proficiency in relevant airport management software and systems.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, as operational demands require.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive executive salary and a comprehensive benefits package, including medical aid, a retirement fund, and performance-based incentives.

• medical aid
• a retirement fund
• performance-based incentives

This role provides significant opportunities for professional growth and development within a vital sector of the aviation industry . You will play a crucial role in the smooth functioning of Richards Bay Airport , contributing to regional connectivity and economic activity.