Ground Operations Manager

Placements24; Upington; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Ground Operations Manager to oversee all ground handling activities at Upington International Airport, ensuring seamless aircraft turnarounds, passenger services, baggage handling and cargo operations. You will lead a dedicated team, drive process improvements, and uphold safety and service standards in a fast-paced environment.

The role requires a Bachelor's in Aviation Management and 5+ years in airport ground operations management, with strong leadership and knowledge of

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Aviation Management or related field.
• Minimum 5 years of airport ground operations management experience.
• Proven leadership and team management in airport environment.
• In-depth knowledge of airport safety procedures, IATA regulations and ground handling best practices.
• Strong understanding of aircraft turnaround processes and GSE operations.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate all ground operations including ramp services, baggage handling, cargo and passenger services.
• Ensure compliance with aviation safety regulations, airline standards and airport policies.
• Develop procedures to improve efficiency and reduce turnaround times.
• Lead, train and motivate ground handling staff with a focus on safety and professionalism.
• Manage budgets, control costs and optimize resource allocation.
• Coordinate with airline reps, ATC, customs and stakeholders for smooth operations.
• Oversee maintenance and use of GSE.
• Respond to disruptions with contingency planning.
• Monitor KPIs and report on performance.

Skills

Leadership

Ground operations

IATA regulations

GSE operations

Safety standards

Budget management

Education

Bachelor's degree in Aviation Management

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a rapidly expanding airline services provider, is seeking a highly motivated and experienced Ground Operations Manager to oversee all ground handling activities at Upington International Airport, Northern Cape . This role is crucial for ensuring the seamless and efficient turnaround of aircraft, managing passenger services, baggage handling, and cargo operations. The successful candidate will lead a dedicated team, optimize operational processes, and maintain the highest levels of safety and customer service. This is a demanding, on-site position requiring exceptional leadership, organizational skills, and a proactive approach to problem-solving in a fast-paced airport environment. We are looking for a results-oriented professional who is passionate about aviation logistics and dedicated to operational excellence.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage and coordinate all aspects of ground operations, including ramp services, baggage handling, cargo, and passenger services.
• Ensure compliance with all aviation safety regulations, airline standards, and airport policies.
• Develop and implement operational procedures to enhance efficiency, reduce turnaround times, and improve service quality.
• Lead, train, and motivate a team of ground handling staff, fostering a culture of safety and professionalism.
• Manage operational budgets, control costs, and optimize resource allocation.
• Liaise with airline representatives, air traffic control, customs, and other stakeholders to ensure smooth operations.
• Oversee the maintenance and utilization of ground support equipment (GSE).
• Respond effectively to operational disruptions and emergencies, implementing contingency plans.
• Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) and report on operational performance.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Aviation Management, Logistics, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in airport ground operations management.
• Proven track record of leadership and team management in an airport environment.
• In-depth knowledge of airport safety procedures, IATA regulations, and ground handling best practices.
• Strong understanding of aircraft turnaround processes and GSE operations.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work under pressure and make critical decisions in a dynamic environment.
• Proficiency in relevant airport operations software and systems.
• Willingness to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and public holidays.
• Valid driver's license.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, commensurate with experience, and a comprehensive benefits package including medical aid and a retirement fund. This role provides significant opportunities for professional growth within the aviation services industry. The position is based at the strategically important Upington International Airport , offering a dynamic work environment.