Resource Planning Manager - UAE Airport Operations

Job Purpose

dnata is more than a global air and travel services provider. We connect people with possibilities and opportunities across 130+ airports in 34 countries through ground handling, cargo, travel, and catering & retail services. Our purpose is clear: to deliver on the promises our customers make. We are powered by a bold vision to be the world’s most admired air and travel services provider, which guides our strategy, culture, and every role across our teams.

Our core values fuel everything we do: we are safe, we play to win, we respect everyone and work together as a team, and we are future thinking. At dnata, we foster diversity, nurture ambition, and celebrate achievement. If you're inspired by purpose and motivated to be part of a global team shaping the future of aviation and travel, we’d love to have you onboard.

As a Resource Planning Manager, you will lead short- to mid-term workforce and equipment planning to optimise resource utilisation. You will partner closely with stakeholders across dnata Airport Operation to align operational needs with business priorities. The role requires clear communication of operational insights and constraints to drive informed, commercially sound decisions, while managing resource planning and rostering across multiple functions, including regular SME contributions towards Dubai based projects.

• Lead short- to mid-term forecasting and resource budgeting & planning for manpower and equipment, ensuring alignment with budget and demand.
• Partner with diverse stakeholder units to translate operational requirements into clear business priorities, influencing workforce strategy, cost optimisation, and service delivery.
• Lead and manage a team within a fast-paced, dynamic environment, ensuring agility, performance, and alignment with operational and business priorities.
• Actively deploy and contribute to the ongoing development of the resource management suite (e.g. INFORM) and leverage Emirates Group technological solutions as applicable to enhance planning effectiveness and performance.
• Manage labour planning, including outsourced providers, while driving cost-efficient operations through continuous monitoring and adjustment.
• Collaborate across dnata business units to deliver innovative solutions, and provide clear, data-driven insights on productivity and performance to support informed decision-making.
• Deliver regular, data-driven productivity reports (weekly, monthly, annual), alongside ad hoc insights for senior management.
• Build and manage effective relationships with key stakeholders, including HR, Finance and respective Business Cost Centres holders.

• Degree or Honours in a relevant field plus a minimum of 8 years of experience in airport operations or movement control.
• A minimum of 5 years in a similar position or capacity.
• Awareness of the following business functions;
  Ramp Operations / Passenger Services / Baggage Services / Operations Services / GSE / Cargo & Mail services / Data Systems and Communications.
• Working knowledge of resource management systems essential.

• The ability to influence business decisions by translating complex operational needs into clear, commercially focused priorities.
• Strong stakeholder management skills, with experience building relationships across functions and seniority levels.
• Demonstrated leadership of high-performing teams in fast-paced, dynamic environments.
• Experience using advanced resource management systems (e.g. INFORM, Genesys WFM, Roster Control) to drive planning effectiveness.
• A track record of delivering cost efficiencies and productivity improvements through data-driven decisions.
• Experience operating in complex, multi-site or joint venture environments.
• Strong analytical skills, with the confidence to present clear insights and recommendations to senior stakeholders.

Join us in a management role and enjoy an attractive tax-free salary.

On top of our generous travel benefits, including discounted flights and hotel stays around the world, this managerial role also has an excellent leave and healthcare package. That’s on top of transport benefits, life insurance and more. Find out what it’s like to live and work in our fast-paced, cosmopolitan home city in the Dubai Lifestyle section of our website

At dnata, part of Emirates Group, we’re committed to providing our employees with opportunities to grow and develop in their careers. So if you’re looking for a challenging and rewarding opportunity, apply today and join our team.