Senior Manager Ground Operations Jobs – Uganda Airlines

Job Overview

Uganda Airlines is recruiting a Senior Manager Ground Operations to oversee all ground handling activities at Entebbe International Airport. This senior leadership role ensures the safe, secure, and punctual delivery of ground services in alignment with international standards and the airline’s operational schedule. The position is critical to maintaining the reputation of Uganda’s national carrier as it continues to expand its regional and international network.

The successful candidate will lead a multidisciplinary team responsible for passenger processing, baggage handling, ramp operations, and aircraft turnaround. They will coordinate with internal departments and external service providers to ensure seamless operations during peak and off-peak periods. This role demands strong operational expertise, leadership ability, and a commitment to safety and customer satisfaction.

Based at the Entebbe Hub, the Senior Manager Ground Operations will report directly to the Chief Customer Services Officer and play a key role in operational planning and performance monitoring. The role involves managing budgets, staffing levels, and service provider contracts while ensuring compliance with civil aviation regulations. It offers a unique opportunity to shape the ground operations strategy of a growing national airline.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement the ground operations plan aligned with flight schedules and customer service objectives.
• Ensure adequate staffing, equipment, and facilities are available for each operating day to support on-time performance.
• Lead daily operational briefings and performance reviews to identify risks, delays, and corrective actions.
• Oversee passenger processing, baggage services, cabin grooming, and ramp activities for all flights at Entebbe Hub.
• Monitor travel-document verification and flight monitoring procedures to ensure compliance with security and immigration regulations.
• Manage transport support and ground support equipment to maintain operational readiness and minimize delays.
• Provide timely reports on safety, punctuality, baggage performance, and supplier reliability to senior management.
• Coordinate with contracted ground-handling providers to ensure adherence to service level agreements and quality standards.
• Oversee station readiness programmes, including manpower planning, budgeting, and facility preparedness.
• Lead responses to operational irregularities such as delays, diversions, and disruptions, ensuring proper communication and resolution.

Qualifications & Experience

Essential

• Bachelor’s degree in Aviation Management, Logistics, Business Administration, or a related field from a recognised institution.
• Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in airport ground operations, with at least 3 years in a supervisory or managerial role.
• Proven experience managing passenger handling, baggage services, ramp operations, or aircraft turnaround in an international airport environment.
• Strong knowledge of IATA Ground Handling Manual (IGOM), ICAO standards, and Uganda Civil Aviation Authority regulations.
• Demonstrated ability to manage budgets, staff rosters, and service provider contracts in a high-pressure operational setting.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills with a track record of improving operational efficiency and safety.

Desirable

• Master’s degree in Aviation Management, Operations Research, or a related discipline.
• Experience working with a national carrier or major international airline in Africa or the Middle East.
• Certification in airport operations, safety management systems (SMS), or IATA ground operations training programmes.
• Familiarity with airport operational databases, flight tracking systems, and baggage reconciliation tools.
• Experience in managing VIP movements, special flights, or charter operations with heightened security and service requirements.
• Knowledge of Ugandan labour laws and experience in managing unionised or multi-contractor work environments.

What the Role Offers

• Competitive monthly salary commensurate with experience, plus housing and transport allowances standard for senior roles in Uganda’s aviation sector.
• Comprehensive medical insurance covering the employee and immediate dependents, including access to private healthcare facilities.
• Generous annual leave entitlement, public holidays, and sick leave in accordance with Uganda Airlines’ human resources policy.
• Opportunities for professional development, including sponsorship for relevant aviation management courses and leadership training.
• Pension scheme contributions and long-service awards recognising commitment to the national carrier’s growth and success.
• Prestige of working for Uganda Airlines, the country’s flag carrier, with opportunities to contribute to national aviation development.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit a detailed CV, copies of academic and professional certificates, and a cover letter outlining their suitability for the role. Please apply now by clicking the link below.

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