Head of Operations – Gatwick
We’re easyJet, one of Europe’s most recognisable airline brands and the largest operator at Gatwick. With more than 1,000 routes across 35 countries, we connect tens of millions of passengers every year with reliable, great value travel. Behind every flight, every departure and every on time arrival is a complex operation powered by exceptional teams who make it all run like clockwork.
Gatwick plays a central role in easyJet’s network, connecting millions of customers every year. To continue driving excellence across this key operation, we’re looking for a Head of Operations – Gatwick to ensure safe, efficient and drive industry leading performance that strengthens our position as Gatwick’s number one airline.
Your Mission
Reporting to the Director of Gatwick, you’ll take ownership of the performance and delivery of one of the most critical parts of our network. You’ll be responsible for leading and inspiring a team of Duty Operations Managers based at Gatwick, driving continuous improvement and ensuring every part of the operations – from ground handling to flight operations – performs seamlessly. You will be expected to act as a Deputy to the Director of Gatwick, shape strategy, build partnerships across the airport ecosystem and represent easyJet at senior levels within Gatwick Airport Limited, regulatory bodies and the wider industry. This is a high impact leadership role at the very centre of our operation.
What You’ll Be Doing
* Lead and inspire the Gatwick teams through a one team culture that drives performance, safety and continuous improvement.
* Provide clear leadership for both easyJet colleagues and third party partners to ensure we remain Gatwick’s number one airline for operational excellence.
* Oversee the Duty Operations Manager team, ensuring safe and efficient day to day delivery and developing a clear succession plan for future leaders.
* Work closely with the Director of Gatwick to shape and deliver our operational strategy, aligning with both strategic and regulatory priorities.
* Build and maintain strong working relationships with Gatwick Airport operations, air traffic services and other key airport stakeholders.
* Represent easyJet at senior levels to influence airport developments, customer experience initiatives and technology deployments.
* Partner with internal teams across Operations Planning, Scheduling and Commercial to align performance, safety and cost targets.
* Lead Gatwick’s approach to business disruption and crisis management, ensuring all staff are trained and base plans are regularly tested.
* Manage easyJet’s relationship with the Gatwick Air Navigation Service Provider to ensure safe, efficient operations and continuous improvement.
What You’ll Bring
* Proven leadership experience managing large, complex operational teams.
* A strong understanding of airfield operations and European airspace management.
* The ability to balance performance, cost and safety, prioritising safety always.
* Excellent communication and influencing skills, capable of engaging at all levels of the business.
* Demonstrated experience leading crisis centres or managing large scale disruption with calm, confident decision‑making.
* Strategic thinking supported by a strong analytical mindset.
* Experience leading through change in a fast paced, high stakes environment.
* A natural leader who inspires collaboration, accountability and innovation.
What’s in It for You
* Competitive base salary
* Up to 30% bonus
* 25 days holiday + bank holidays
* BAYE, SAYE & Performance Share Schemes
* 7% company pension contribution
* Life Assurance
* Private Medical Insurance
* Flexible benefits package
* Outstanding staff travel benefits across the easyJet network
Hours of Work & Place of Work
This is a full time role, working 40 hours per week, based at Gatwick Airport. The successful candidate must be able to hold an airside pass and airside driving permit.
We’re committed to building a team that reflects the diverse customers and communities we serve. Even if you don’t meet every single requirement, we’d still love to hear from you – if you have the skills and passion to make a difference, you could be the perfect fit. And if you need any adjustments during the recruitment process, just let us know and we’ll work with you to find a solution.
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