Manager Operations | Emiratisation

Job Purpose

dnata Airport Operations’ vast ground handling operations successfully service the major global hub at Dubai International Airport and Al Maktoum International Airport. We deliver a seamless experience from check‑in to baggage delivery for more than 80 million passengers and 140 scheduled airlines annually.

• Review and adjust operational plans to meet business needs, anticipating disruptions and guiding corrective actions through the Airport Operations Control Centre team.
• Lead safety initiatives by conducting briefings, enforcing compliance and ensuring staff are equipped to work safely and confidently.
• Manage daily operations, ensuring accurate reporting, optimal resource allocation and adherence to regulatory and company standards.
• Oversee emergency response procedures and lead post‑incident reviews to ensure lessons are captured and improvements implemented.
• Build strong relationships with customers and stakeholders, ensuring service level agreements are met and satisfaction is maintained.
• Conduct regular inspections and safety checks across airside, landside and facilities, taking immediate action to resolve discrepancies.
• Monitor data sources to forecast disruptions, resolve time‑critical issues and implement business continuity plans for Airport Operations Control Centre and dnata Operations Control Centre.
• Lead emergency response plan for dnata airport operations in case of an accident or incident.
• Act as Bronze Commander during emergencies, coordinating with Service Delivery Managers and ensuring effective communication.
• Oversee dnata cargo operations at DXB and DWC, addressing escalations and ensuring alignment with airline and freight forwarder SLAs.
• Coordinate with Emirates and flydubai during irregular operations to support revised schedules and ensure dnata resources are deployed effectively.

This is a ‘Safety Sensitive’ position.

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

• Bachelor’s degree in business administration, aviation or ground handling, along with 8+ years’ experience in aviation and ground handling, which will include 2 years’ experience in a supervisory role.
• A Diploma in business administration, aviation or ground handling and 10+ years of experience in aviation and ground handling including 4 years’ experience in a supervisory role.

• Advanced knowledge of airline customer service products, airport operations and aviation terminology.
• Strong leadership, planning, organisational and quality orientation skills.
• Excellent communication, safety awareness and stakeholder engagement abilities.
• High proficiency in IT systems and computer literacy.
• Strong experience of budget and cost control management.

dnata part of Emirates Group is an international organisation with employees from over 170 nationalities and we encourage applications from across the globe. Your application journey begins by applying via our 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 Hire Vue 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 our Onboarding team will ensure a smooth transition to your new role.

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