Aircraft Turnaround Manager, dnata (DXB)

Job description / Role

About dnata Airport Operations

Dnata Airport Operations' vast ground handling operations successfully service the major global hub that is Dubai International Airport. We deliver a seamless experience from check-in to baggage delivery for more than 80 million passengers and 140 scheduled airlines annually.

Role Overview

As an Aircraft Turnaround Manager, you will lead and manage the day-to-day operations of specific terminal-based Aircraft Turnaround Services at Dubai International Airport, overseeing all loading and unloading activities. You will be responsible for managing a large employee group, coordinating the pre-positioning of equipment and loading teams, and ensuring seamless service delivery to airline customers on a 24/7 basis. You will drive the execution of departmental strategic plans and be accountable for meeting key performance targets in service quality, cost control, staff satisfaction, safety, and the reduction of controllable delays, while maintaining a strong focus on operational efficiency and team performance.

Key Responsibilities

In this role, you will:

• Manage aircraft loading teams, including staffing, recruitment, training, performance, discipline, and development to ensure efficient and cost-effective operations.
• Ensure safe working practices by promoting a strong safety culture, modeling correct behaviors, using PPE, and addressing risks proactively.
• Ensure compliance with safety and security regulations at Dubai International Airport, escalating irregularities to Senior Manager Aircraft Turnaround.
• Develop, manage, and monitor Aircraft Turnaround activities to meet agreed Service Level Agreements with customer airlines.
• Review and audit performance standards and procedures, recommending and implementing improvements to enhance turnaround services.
• Analyze discrepancy reports and recommend process changes to improve standards and reduce unit costs.
• Maintain strong working relationships with internal teams and external partners to ensure high service levels and share proactive improvement feedback.
• Collaborate with dnata's support functions to implement technology solutions for enhanced service, efficiency, and cost savings.
• Benchmark current practices against industry standards to introduce best practices for safety and customer satisfaction.
• Communicate procedural changes and ensure compliance by coordinating with dnata Training and dnata Safety.
• Review and approve airline-specific training material to ensure effective implementation in turnaround operations.

Qualifications & Experience

To be considered for the role, you must meet the below requirements:

• Bachelor's degree and 8+ years' experience in an international airline or ground handling company at management level.
• Thorough knowledge of aircraft loading and unloading procedures, cargo and ULD operations, and ground support equipment.
• Working knowledge of baggage services, cargo and mail handling, relevant IT systems, and communication protocols.
• Adaptable to working in a diverse, multicultural environment.

Preferred Qualifications

You will have an edge if you have:

• Familiarity with industry standards and regulatory frameworks such as AHM, ISAGO, IATA, DCAA, and GCAA.
• A valid UAE driving license or a transferable international driving license.

Join Our Team

At Emirates Group, we're committed to providing our employees with opportunities to grow and develop in their careers. So if you're looking for a challenging and rewarding opportunity, apply today and join our team!

Recruitment Process and Timeline

Emirates Group is an international organization with employees from over 170 nationalities. We encourage applications from across the globe. Your application journey begins by applying via the Emirates Group Careers website. Please ensure your CV is up to date for our talent acquisition team to review your profile. If you meet the criteria of the role, you will then be invited to complete a HireVue video interview, to share more about your experience and your career aspirations. If you are shortlisted, you will then be invited to interview with our hiring managers. If you are successful, your recruiter will reach out to you with an offer and then our onboarding team will ensure a smooth transition to your new role at Emirates Group.

About the Company

A fast-growing international airline with one of the youngest fleets in the sky and more than 400 awards for excellence worldwide.