Area Manager - Ground Operations (Morocco, Spain & France)

About the role

Reporting to the Head of Ground Operations, the Area Manager leads and oversees airport operations across assigned regions to ensure safe, efficient and compliant ground handling. The role supports regional strategies and business plans in line with Air Arabia's operational, financial and customer service objectives, through stakeholder management, data-driven performance monitoring and cross-functional coordination.

Key responsibilities

• Support the Head of Ground Operations in developing, implementing and monitoring regional strategies and business plans, ensuring cost control and optimal ROI
• Liaise with stakeholders to set up airport services procedures aligned with quality, safety and regulatory standards
• Carry out feasibility studies and prepare operating budgets for stations, monitor spending and recommend cost savings
• Help start up and make new hubs ready, covering contracting, manpower, facilities, systems and training
• Build relationships with airports, civil aviation authorities, ground handling agents and industry bodies, and support negotiation of ground handling and customer service contracts
• Work with the Commercial team to align operations with revenue targets and cost optimisation
• Run field visits, audits and performance reviews, analyse data to spot trends and gaps, and work with Quality, Safety and Security teams on compliance and audits
• Coordinate with IT and government bodies on system setup, upgrades and maintenance
• Define objectives and KPIs for station teams with HR, coach staff and recommend improvements to systems and procedures

Required profile

• Bachelor's degree in aviation management, Business Administration or a related field; a Master's is an advantage
• 5+ years of progressive experience in Ground Operations, including at least 2 years in a managerial or multi-station leadership role
• Proven experience managing airport operations, GHAs and compliance with international standards (IATA, ICAO, GCAA)
• Strong leadership, analytical and negotiation skills, and excellent stakeholder and vendor coordination
• Extensive travel across assigned regions and willingness to travel
• Moroccan nationality or residency is a must

Required skills

• Proficiency in MS Office and operational management systems
• Data-driven decision-making is a strong advantage