VP Ground Handling - Aviation Services

Our client is a leading global Tier 1 aviation services organisation, recognised for delivering world-class ground handling, cargo, and support services across major international hubs as part of their strategic expansion and operational alignment in Southern Africa. They are seeking a dynamic and experienced VP Ground Handling to oversee all activities. This role will be responsible for shaping the operational agenda, ensuring full compliance with safety and regulatory standards, and driving efficient, reliable, and cost-effective service delivery across the sub-region. The successful candidate will play a key role in enhancing performance, enabling sustainable growth, and strengthening the organisations position in a competitive aviation market.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Operations Management

• Provide strategic direction and operational leadership across all assigned airports and stations, ensuring consistency in service delivery, processes, and personnel performance.
• Collaborate with senior management to develop and refine service offerings, driving continuous improvement to achieve world-class operational standards.
• Strengthen regulatory compliance and operational capabilities to exceed customer expectations and improve satisfaction and retention.
• Manage daily operations, oversee training and marketing initiatives, and implement a robust station performance framework with regular tracking and corrective actions.
• Monitor KPIs, safety and security standards, service quality, resource utilisation, and SLA adherence to meet client expectations across all locations.
• Champion change by reviewing and enhancing both internal and external operational processes for optimal station performance.
• Lead the mobilisation of new contracts, ensuring smooth transitions and scalable, cost-efficient implementation.
• Assume full accountability for QHSE and security performance across the sub-region, working with functional heads and GMs to ensure alignment with global and regulatory standards.
• Act as the companys representative to clients, government authorities, aviation regulators, customs, immigration, and other stakeholders, nurturing partnerships to support operations and business development.

Financial Management & Commercial Development

• Develop and manage the departments annual business plan and operating budget.
• Identify and evaluate new business opportunities in line with the companys strategic growth objectives, contributing to both organic and inorganic expansion.
• Review financial reports, operational metrics, and investment performance to assess profitability and guide strategic decisions.
• Provide commercial insight and recommendations on cost optimisation, technology integration, process improvement, and potential expansion activities (e.g., acquisitions, alliances).
• Ensure financial targets are achieved through rigorous budget control and expenditure oversight.
• Deliver timely and accurate financial reporting on departmental performance and capital utilisation.

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor's or Masters degree in Business Administration, Operations, or a related field; MBA preferred.
• A minimum of 10 years senior management experience within a relevant operational environment.
• Proven leadership, people management, and stakeholder engagement skills, with a track record of delivering measurable results.
• Strong communication and presentation skills in English; proficiency in a local language is advantageous.
• Deep understanding of airport ground handling, operations management, vendor coordination, and regulatory compliance within Southern Africa.
• Experience with budgeting, data analysis, and business performance management; aviation sector experience is a strong asset.