Role Purpose
The Airport Operations Manager is responsible for the safe, compliant and efficient day-to-day operation of Rochester Airport. Reporting directly to the Airport Director / Aerodrome Accountable Manager, the role provides operational leadership across airside operations, Airport Rescue and Fire Fighting Services (ARFFS), Flight Information Service Officers (FISOs), safety management and operational compliance.
The postholder will ensure the aerodrome operates in accordance with applicable UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) regulations, airport procedures and company policies while supporting the operational and commercial objectives of the airport.
The role includes responsibility for the management and continuous improvement of the airport Safety Management System (SMS), emergency planning arrangements and operational documentation including aerodrome procedures and manuals.
The Airport Operations Manager will deputise for the Airport Director / Aerodrome Accountable Manager in their absence and may be required to support frontline operational shifts where suitably qualified and competent.
Key Responsibilities
Operations & Compliance
* Manage the daily operation of the aerodrome ensuring safe and efficient airside activities.
* Ensure compliance with applicable legislation, CAA regulations and CAP guidance.
* Conduct airfield inspections, audits, risk assessments and occurrence investigations.
* Coordinate airfield maintenance, contractors and operational works.
* Monitor operational performance and implement improvements where required.
* Support emergency response planning, exercises and incident management.
* Promote and maintain a strong safety culture across the airport.
Safety Management System (SMS)
* Support and develop the airport Safety Management System.
* Lead hazard identification, risk assessment and safety assurance activities.
* Investigate incidents and ensure corrective actions are implemented.
* Monitor safety performance indicators and operational trends.
* Support regulatory inspections and compliance monitoring activities.
Procedures & Manuals
* Author, review and maintain operational procedures, manuals and local instructions.
* Maintain document control processes and ensure operational documentation remains current and compliant.
* Ensure staff are briefed and trained on procedural amendments.
ARFFS / Duty Crew Management
* Manage the operational readiness, training and competency of ARFFS/Duty Crew personnel.
* Ensure firefighting vehicles, PPE and rescue equipment remain operationally ready.
* Manage staffing levels, rosters and emergency response capability.
Flight Information Service Oversight
* Provide operational oversight and line management of FISOs.
* Ensure licensing, competency and continuation training requirements are maintained.
* Maintain high standards of operational discipline and customer service.
Operational Shift Support
The postholder may be required to support operational shifts including:
* ARFFS / Duty Crew duties
* Flight Information Service duties
* Airfield inspections and operational response activities
Such duties will only be undertaken where the individual holds the required qualifications and competencies.
Essential Qualifications & Experience
* Experience in airport or aviation operational management.
* Strong understanding of aerodrome operations and aviation safety principles.
* Experience managing teams within a safety-critical environment.
* Knowledge of UK CAA regulations and relevant CAP publications.
* Experience in Safety Management Systems and operational risk management.
* Experience writing or maintaining operational procedures and manuals.
* Strong leadership, communication and organisational skills.
* Full UK driving licence.
Essential Operational Competencies (one or more desirable)
Current or previous:
* Flight Information Service Officer (FISO) licence
* Aerodrome Firefighter qualification
* Airside Operations Management Experience
* Incident Command experience
Desirable Qualifications & Experience
* Airport Operations or Aviation Management qualification.
* Experience within a General Aviation or regional airport environment.
* IOSH or NEBOSH qualification.
* Experience in compliance monitoring or auditing.
* Knowledge of CAP 168, CAP 699, CAP 700 and CAP 797 guidance.
* First Aid at Work qualification.