Job Purpose
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 34 countries across six continents. At dnata, we are by your side for the entire travel experience.
As Managing Director dnata Airport Operations UK, reporting to the Regional CEO Europe, you will lead the Executive Committee (EXCO) for dnata Ltd UK and hold accountability for the consolidation and overall management of the business. This includes delivering safe, secure, and customer-focused ground handling and cargo services in line with regulatory requirements, dnata policies, and client airline expectations. The role also encompasses developing and executing the UK business strategy, setting and achieving financial targets in collaboration with dnata International management, and building strong relationships with government bodies, airport authorities, border agencies, and other key regulatory stakeholders.
This position is UK-based and may require periodic travel across Europe and to dnata's global HQ in Dubai.
In this role, you will:
To be considered for the role, you will meet the below requirements:
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 34 countries across six continents. At dnata, we are by your side for the entire travel experience.
As Managing Director dnata Airport Operations UK, reporting to the Regional CEO Europe, you will lead the Executive Committee (EXCO) for dnata Ltd UK and hold accountability for the consolidation and overall management of the business. This includes delivering safe, secure, and customer-focused ground handling and cargo services in line with regulatory requirements, dnata policies, and client airline expectations. The role also encompasses developing and executing the UK business strategy, setting and achieving financial targets in collaboration with dnata International management, and building strong relationships with government bodies, airport authorities, border agencies, and other key regulatory stakeholders.
This position is UK-based and may require periodic travel across Europe and to dnata's global HQ in Dubai.
In this role, you will:
- Lead the operational and strategic management of dnata Ltd UK in alignment with targets set by the Regional CEO Europe, the Board, and group leadership
- Oversee financial planning, management, and control in line with dnata's global strategy
- Ensure compliance with directives from the Regional CEO and the Board within local legal frameworks
- Direct the UK leadership team to deliver agreed budgets and performance targets
- Maintain effective oversight of the company's operations, resources, and performance at all levels
- Maximise the efficient use of human, material, and financial resources
- Uphold legal and safety measures to safeguard employee wellbeing
- Manage and protect company funds and assets responsibly
- Represent dnata Ltd UK with clients, government agencies, legal authorities, and industry stakeholders
- Keep the Board informed of any issues with potential financial, legal, or reputational impact
- Prepare and present a rolling three-year strategic plan to dnata HQ, outlining growth and development goals
- Deliver annual budgets and forecasts covering revenue, operating costs, investments, personnel, and productivity
- Collaborate with the Finance Head to submit annual reports and audited financial statements within three months of year-end
- Report monthly on operational and financial performance to dnata HQ
- Undertake any additional responsibilities as delegated by the Board
To be considered for the role, you will meet the below requirements:
- A degree in Business, Aviation Management, or a related field, or qualified by experience
- Proven track record in a senior leadership role within the aviation or logistics industry
- Strong commercial acumen, financial planning experience, and strategic execution capabilities
- Deep understanding of ground handling and cargo operations
- Demonstrated ability to build trusted relationships with senior stakeholders and regulatory authorities
- Strong leadership, decision-making, and people management skills
- Excellent communication skills and ability to influence at all levels
- Comfortable operating in a high-pressure, fast-paced environment
- Proficiency in business systems, budgeting tools, and Microsoft Office
- Prior experience managing a regulated business in the UK or EU market
- Familiarity with UK airport operational environments and associated governance
- Experience chairing an executive leadership team or EXCO