Planning And Scheduling Officer

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 planning and scheduling officer, you will implement workforce optimization frameworks through expert use of workforce planning systems. This includes delivery of advanced roster modeling and analytics, providing data-driven insights that influence decision-making related to manpower resourcing. The role holder will lead the development and implementation of optimized staff scheduling solutions that provide operational efficiency, enhance resource utilization, and improve employee satisfaction.

Key Responsibilities

• Drive the development of workforce scheduling frameworks, integrating complex variables including skill matrices, business forecasts, and emerging operational trends to optimize employee resource allocation.
• Lead advanced roster scenario planning using workforce management optimization tools, delivering innovative solutions that balance operational excellence with cost efficiency.
• Analyze implemented models and provide recommendations to stakeholders on staffing strategies, overtime optimization, and flexible deployment models to meet dynamic business requirements.
• Direct the implementation of optimized workforce schedules across multiple business units, ensuring seamless integration of training requirements and qualification compliance.
• Challenge business recommendations and advocate roster deployment models that enhance operational flexibility while maintaining fair work distribution and employee welfare.
• Lead the execution of overtime management initiatives, optimizing resource utilization while ensuring cost-effectiveness and regulatory compliance.
• Partner with department heads and resource planning leads to discuss anticipated staffing needs and potential scheduling challenges.
• Accountable to drive continuous improvement in staff scheduling practices by engaging in cross-functional initiatives and implementing Plan-Do-Review cycles.
• Oversee the integrity of workforce management systems (SPX or other systems), ensuring robust version control and maintaining base data that improves roster performance across all business units.
• Deliver insights through advanced analytics and reporting, enabling data-driven decision-making at the senior management level.

Qualifications & Experience

• Qualifications: Secondary school qualification (12 years).
• Experience: 5+ years of work experience in an operations environment; minimum of 3 years of experience in planning, rostering, and employee scheduling.
• Knowledge & Skills:
  • Intermediate to advanced knowledge in the use of 'Optimizer' or 'Rules-based Solver' in workforce management systems.
  • Hands-on skills with advanced workforce planning systems and/or optimization tools.
  • Advanced problem-solving skills and ability to influence stakeholders.
  • Effective written and verbal communication skills.
  • Advanced knowledge of workplace digital tools such as i) MS Office suite, ii) Advanced Excel, iii) Power Automate Desktop, iv) Power BI, v) Power Query.

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.