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General Manager, Airport Operations
General Manager, Airport OperationsConfidential • Seattle, WA, US
General Manager, Airport Operations

General Manager, Airport Operations

Confidential • Seattle, WA, US
20 days ago
Job type
  • Full-time
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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