Ground Operations Manager

Placements24; Polokwane; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health and retirement benefits

Relocation assistance

Job summary

Placements24, on behalf of a leading airline, seeks a seasoned Ground Operations Manager for its Polokwane hub in Limpopo. You will oversee all ground handling activities, ensure safety, efficiency and high levels of service for departures and arrivals, and lead a diverse team across ramp, baggage, and passenger services.

Reporting to senior operations leadership, you will manage budgets, collaborate with airport authorities and stakeholders, and drive improvements to reduce turnaround times

Qualifications

• A degree in Aviation Management or related field.
• Minimum 7 years in airline or airport ground operations with 3+ years in supervision/management.
• Proven leadership and team management skills.
• In-depth knowledge of ground handling procedures, safety regulations (IATA GRH) and security protocols.
• Excellent problem-solving, decision-making, and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Manage and coordinate all ground handling activities, including baggage handling, aircraft servicing, ramp operations, and passenger services.
• Ensure compliance with safety regulations, security procedures, and operational standards.
• Develop and implement operational plans to optimize efficiency and reduce turnaround times.
• Lead, motivate, and manage the ground operations team, fostering a high-performance culture.
• Monitor performance, analyze data, and implement improvements.
• Manage budgets and resources to achieve financial targets.
• Liaise with flight crews, maintenance, security, and other departments for smooth operations.
• Handle disruptions and emergencies effectively to minimize impact.
• Maintain relationships with airport authorities and service providers.

Skills

Leadership

Ground operations

Safety regulations

Budget management

Education

A degree in Aviation Management

Job description

About the Role

A leading airline is seeking an experienced and dynamic Ground Operations Manager for its key hub in Polokwane . This senior role is responsible for overseeing all aspects of ground handling operations, ensuring efficiency, safety, and exceptional customer service for departing and arriving flights. The Manager will lead a diverse team of ground crew, manage operational budgets, and liaise with various airport stakeholders to ensure seamless flight operations. This is a critical leadership position contributing to the airline's success in the Limpopo province.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage and coordinate all ground handling activities, including baggage handling, aircraft servicing, ramp operations, and passenger services.
• Ensure compliance with all safety regulations, security procedures, and operational standards.
• Develop and implement operational plans and strategies to optimize efficiency and reduce turnaround times.
• Lead, motivate, and manage the ground operations team, fostering a high-performance culture.
• Monitor operational performance, analyze data, and implement improvements.
• Manage budgets and resources effectively to achieve financial targets.
• Liaise with flight crews, maintenance, security, and other departments to ensure smooth operations.
• Handle operational disruptions and emergencies effectively, minimizing impact.
• Maintain strong relationships with airport authorities and third-party service providers.

Requirements

• A degree in Aviation Management, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in airline or airport ground operations, with at least 3 years in a supervisory or management role.
• Proven leadership and team management skills.
• In-depth knowledge of ground handling procedures, safety regulations (e.g., IATA GRH), and security protocols.
• Excellent problem-solving, decision-making, and communication skills.
• Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Proficiency in operational planning and performance analysis tools.
• Strong understanding of budget management and cost control.

Benefits

• Our client offers an attractive executive salary, comprehensive health and retirement benefits, and opportunities for further career advancement within the aviation industry.
• Relocation assistance may be considered.
• This role provides a significant opportunity to lead critical operations at a key airport in Polokwane , contributing to the efficiency and reputation of the airline.