Job Description

The General Manager, Airport Operations is responsible for leading all aspects of ground operations, including gate, ramp, and related support functions. This role oversees a large group of station employees and ensures operational performance meets or exceeds company Service Level Agreements (SLAs), TSA regulations, safety standards, and customer expectations.

The ideal candidate will bring a strong background in large-scale operations management, people leadership, and continuous process improvement, with the ability to drive performance, safety, and efficiency in a fast-paced, 24/7 environment.

Responsibilities

• Operational Leadership: Direct daily airport operations including gate and ramp activities to ensure safe, timely, and efficient service delivery.
• Performance Management: Monitor and achieve SLAs, key performance indicators (KPIs), and productivity goals related to on-time performance, turnaround times, and customer satisfaction.
• People Management: Lead, coach, and develop a large, diverse workforce of over 300 team members, including front-line agents and supervisory staff.
• Safety & Compliance: Champion a culture of safety, ensuring all operations comply with company policies, regulatory requirements, and industry standards.
• Strategic Planning: Collaborate with corporate leadership to develop and implement operational strategies, staffing models, and cost-control measures.
• Continuous Improvement: Identify process inefficiencies, implement corrective actions, and drive initiatives that improve reliability, employee engagement, and service quality.
• Stakeholder Communication: Serve as the primary point of contact for airline partners, vendors, and internal departments, ensuring alignment on priorities and issue resolution.
• Budget & Resource Management: Oversee budget planning, labor utilization, and equipment maintenance to support operational objectives.

Minimum Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Aviation, Business Administration, or related field (or equivalent operational experience).
• 7–10 years of progressive leadership experience in airport, airline, or ground operations, including management of large, multi-shift teams.
• Demonstrated success managing service level performance, safety standards, and financial outcomes in a complex operational environment.
• Strong interpersonal, analytical, and organizational skills, with the ability to lead effectively across diverse teams and shifting priorities.
• Proficiency in interpreting operational and financial data to inform decisions and strategic planning.
• Ability to work flexible hours and respond to operational needs outside normal business hours.

Working Conditions

• Environment: The position operates in both office and outdoor ramp environments, often exposed to varying weather conditions, noise, and aircraft activity.
• Schedule: This is a full-time position that requires flexibility to work extended hours, including nights, weekends, and holidays, to support a 24/7 operation.
• Physical Requirements: Must be able to stand, walk, and move between airport facilities for extended periods. Occasional lifting of materials or equipment (up to 50 lbs) may be required.
• PPE & Safety: Personal protective equipment (PPE) must be worn in designated ramp areas. Adherence to all company and airport safety procedures is mandatory.

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