Manager Operational Planning & Readiness, dnata Airport Operations (3 years fixed term contract)

dnata  is one of the world’s largest air and travel services providers; offering ground handling, cargo, travel and catering & retail services at over 130 airports in more than 30 countries across six continents. At dnata, we are by your side for the entire travel experience. 

As the Manager Operational Planning & Readiness, dnata Airport Operations you will be responsible for the provision of expertise in planning, developing, and scheduling of all operational readiness activities associated with new airport and airfield design with a specific focus on Al Maktoum International Airport (AMIA). This is a 3 year fixed term contract.

You will lead cross functional work streams and represent dnata in key forums to jointly develop, conceptualise and model dnata’s operating strategy and ensure that the master plan and subsequent development work at AMIA incorporates the future requirements for dnata UAE Airport Operations and dnata UAE Cargo Operations business divisions.

In  this role, you will:

• Represent and advocate on behalf of dnata in all stakeholder meetings or planning workshops.


• Lead in the development and validation of dnata planning specifications and requirements documents.


• Prepare and submit formal dnata requirements into the master plan for construction, airfield design and operational needs.


• Collaborate with the business heads and other SMEs to develop and validate scenarios and suitable operating model options aligned with the new airport design concepts.


• Build and maintain strong relationships with all stakeholders, promoting and safeguarding the interests of both the dnata UAE Airport Operations and dnata UAE Cargo Operations business divisions.


• Be accountable for establishing the overall programme management of dnata UAE future facilities development.


• Work closely with the respective innovation and ground equipment teams to provide insight into the emerging airport design and overlay the impact of incoming technologies and equipment into the forward-looking operating model.

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

• Bachelors degree and 10+ years of relevant experience in Operational Readiness, Activation and Transition (ORAT), including proven experience in airfield and airport design.


• Considerable leadership experience (including virtual teams) and experience in roles with indirect influence and senior stakeholder management.


• Demonstrated experience managing large projects with accountability for strategic planning, budgeting, and delivery.


• Preferred experience in the Ground handling industry; preferred experience in the Middle East.

You’ll  have an edge if you have:

• Advanced level negotiation skills.


• Strong technical skills in airport planning, aviation operations, operational and technology testing.


• Advanced knowledge of International Air Transport Association regulation and Quality Management Systems.


• Highly developed interpersonal skills, including demonstrable skill communicating with sensitivity and impact in multi-cultural environments.


• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with powerful ability to persuade and influence people, internally and externally, at all levels.

At  dnata, part of 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!