Ground Operations Managers are responsible for all aspects of the safe, cost-effective and punctual running of the operation at their allocated bases and outstations in the Group network. The position shall ensure that Wizz Air Group has the best possible representation in the local spanet and that business is conducted in keeping in line with both the airline and EASA/UK CAA/GCAA or other CA regulations.  

• Owning and maintaining local relationships at the nominated airports, including but not limited to airport authorities, ground handling, control authorities and relevant state departments; 
• Ensuring that Wizz Air has the best possible representation in the local spanets and all key internal stakeholders are kept fully informed and suitably represented as required on all issues concerning the operation, including quality of product and customer service; 
• Ensuring the safety, security and compliance of ground operation activities including all contracted activities at the nominated stations; 
• Oversight of the start-up of new operational locations (new stations and bases); capacity increase of operational bases, alternate and diversion arrangements; 
• Maintaining timely and effective contacts with other departments within Wizz Air and with outside organizations, contractors, external entities; 
• Liaison with the competent authorities on ground operations matters in the nominated spanet; 
• Ensuring safe, compliant and secure day-to day operations including operational efficiency, on-time performance, disruption management, customer care, oversight of relevant programmes and system developments; 
• Ensuring that the nominated ground handling companies and airport authorities comply with the relevant regulations, company policies and standards and with Wizz Air safety requirements at all times; 
• Co-ordination and management of the nominated ground handling suppliers and airport companies to deliver targeted performance outcomes in all areas of safety, cost control and operational performance; 
• Communication and follow up in case of flight disruptions and follow up on service recovery procedures, based on EU261 and/or other local regulations; 
• Monitoring operational messages and delay codes, follow up with non-complying stations; 
• Maintaining continuous oversight of deviations from company standards at nominated stations, ensuring the on-time execution of safety and compliance corrective and improvement actions; 
• Undertaking station visits and relevant audits/inspections and trainings as follow up on outstanding items as Air Safety reports, mystery passenger report, audit findings within the confines of Ground Operations processes; 
• Participating in cross-functional projects and new product development from planning to introduction stage; 
• Liaison with Airport Development and Purchasing departments to secure lowest cost contracts and working on long term cost cutting strategies. Participate in SGHA negotiations, vendor research and selection; 
• Liaison with the relevant Safety, Security and Compliance Managers on safety, security and compliance matters affecting ground operations at the nominated stations. 

3-5+ years overall working experience, with 2+ years of relevant work experience 

• Shall have an understanding of the airline ground operations concept 
• Computer proficiency 

Bachelors or Master’s degree 

• Fluent English (both written and spoken) 
• Knowledge of Spanish is an advantage 

• People management experience 
• Strong interpersonal and organizational skills 
• Solid decision-making 
• Work well under pressure