Airfield Operations Director

Job Purpose:

Direct and lead the provision of all airfield operations in Dammam Airports Company.  Maintain full operational readiness of the airport for emergencies, ensuring the efficient and effective provision of airlines, and aviation logistics clients in a safe, secure, and customer-oriented setting, in line with Dammam Airports Company strategy, regulatory and quality standard requirements

Position Accountability Description:

Strategic Leadership:

1. Articulate, develop and update the Aviation Division’s strategy in compliance with Dammam Airports Company’s strategy, and lead its execution in line with Dammam Airports Company’s short, medium, and long-term goals and objectives.
2. Develop the Aviation business plans, KPIs and milestones in line with Dammam Airports Company strategy, and ensure departmental annual plans are in line with the divisional business plan.Monitor the operational performance of the Operations Division against the approved targets and
3. KPIs, and takes the necessary corrective and preventive measures, in coordination with the Corporate Performance Management protocols, to enhance performance and better serve the business.

Operational Excellence:

4. Lead the development and implementation of airfield operational policies and processes, in line with GACA policy framework and national/international regulations.
5. Oversee and manage all airfield operations to ensure the safe and efficient movement of aircraft, passengers, and cargo, in compliance with international safety standards.
6. Collaborate with SANS, airlines, and other stakeholders to manage aircraft flows around the airfield, including pre-planning and re-planning of stand/gate allocations to optimize operational efficiency and meet airline requirements.
7. Ensure the efficient allocation of aircraft stands and gates to maximize pier service levels, monitor real-time work levels, handle emergencies, manage passenger and cargo flow, and troubleshoot issues as they arise.
8. Coordinate the issuance of NOTAMs and manage airfield maintenance requirements, working closely with AIP SANS for updates and participating in investigations with AIB as necessary.
9. Support cargo operations by maintaining strong relationships with cargo companies and stakeholders, supervising cargo village activities, and coordinating flight scheduling to ensure high performance standards.
10. Ensure compliance with airport policies and security protocols, particularly Dangerous Goods Regulations (DGR), by evaluating and reporting non-compliance, developing corrective actions, and monitoring previous breaches.
11. Prepare and present regular performance reports to senior management, highlighting key metrics, operational issues, and recommendations for improvement.
12. Analyze current operational practices to identify inefficiencies, implement best practices, and enhance productivity while reducing costs.
13. Develop and manage process improvement initiatives aimed at increasing the overall effectiveness of airfield operations.
14. Lead and coordinate emergency response plans and drills, ensuring preparedness for operational disruptions and effective crisis management.
15. Manage crisis situations to minimize disruption to airfield operations and maintain service continuity, including coordinating with the relevant departments on crisis management frameworks and exercises.
16. Ensure high levels of customer satisfaction by promptly addressing operational issues and coordinating with customer support teams to resolve service-related concerns.
17. Plan and manage effective coordination of airfield operations with government agencies, tenants, and airport departments to ensure smooth and efficient processing and movement.
18. Ensure the presence of a Person-in-Control to make critical operational, health, safety, environmental (HSE), and security decisions on behalf of the airfield operations division 24/7.
19. Oversee the development and approval of business cases for all Aviation divisional projects and present them to the Aviation Director for approval.
20. Oversee strategic partnerships with ground handling service providers, ensuring that performance standards are met and aligned with operational efficiency and safety protocols.
21. Develop and implement performance metrics and KPIs to monitor ground handling operations, ensuring high standards of service delivery across all airport operations.
22. Lead initiatives to improve ground handling efficiency, including the introduction of new technologies, automation, and staff training programs, ensuring smooth coordination between airfield and ground handling teams.

Stakeholder Management:

23. Coordinate with internal departments and external stakeholders to ensure integrated and efficient airfield operations.
24. Communicate operational updates and changes effectively to all team members and relevant stakeholders.

Team Leadership & Development:

25. Develop and implement talent management strategies by identifying skill gaps, providing training, and fostering career growth, enhancing employee capabilities and retention.
26. Lead and mentor team members, promoting a culture of continuous improvement and operational excellence.

Financial Management:

27. Supervise financial planning and budgeting within the department by tracking expenditures and financial performance, ensuring adherence to budgetary guidelines and financial targets.
28. Manage departmental resources by assessing needs, allocating budgets, and optimizing utilization, ensuring efficient operations and maximum return on investment.

Risk & Compliance Management:

29. Ensure compliance with industry standards and regulations by implementing rigorous policies and procedures, mitigating risks and maintaining a strong reputation.
30. Oversee and ensure the highest levels of safety and compliance across all airfield areas in accordance with GACA requirements and international best practices, developing and implementing policies to maintain these standards, and conducting round-the-clock inspections and enforcement.

1 Core Competency  

1. Focusing on Customers
2. Collaboration & Teamwork
3. Accountability & Proactivity
4. Delivering Results

2 Leadership Competency                

1. Leading with Impact
2. Developing People
3. Driving & Leading Change
4. Forming & Sustaining Partnerships
5. Creativity & Innovation

Aviation Management or equivalent