Manager, Airport Operations, JFK

About the Role

 The Aviation Department of the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey is currently seeking an experienced Manager, Airport Operations, John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) to drive a world-class customer experience through an integrated governance model that includes strong partnerships with JFK airport stakeholders and the surrounding communities.

Reporting to the General Manager, JFK, the Manager, Airport Operations is responsible for the management and strategic oversight of the JFK Operations Division. The Manager, Airport Operations will also ensure the airport is operated in a safe, secure, and efficient manner, in compliance with federal, state, and local laws/regulations, and in a financially sound manner. This role will also oversee the development and implementation of appropriate plans to ensure operational activities are resilient and meet the existing and future needs of customers and key stakeholders for business resumption and continuity.

The Manager, Airport Operations is directly responsible for leading / overseeing the following functions: Aeronautical Operations, Landside Operations, Airport Operations Center, Customer Service, Transportation Services, and Parking Operations.  The position interfaces frequently with the Security Department, ARFF, Port Authority Police Department, and Maintenance Division to ensure a safe, secure, and compliant operation regarding CFR Part 139 and TSR Part 1542.

Responsibilities

Safe, Secure and Resilient Operations

• Provide vision and active leadership over development and execution of high-quality airport customer service to meet the needs of air passengers and partners. 
• Lead Airport Operations to protect the welfare and needs of customers and employees. 
• Ensure successful execution of a comprehensive landside operations and customer experience program, and compliance with regulatory requirements for aeronautical operations. 
• Lead efforts with airport staff and Aviation headquarters to establish goal-driven management plans to ensure compliance with federal regulations (Transportation Security Administration, Federal Aviation Administration, Customs & Border Protection).

Stakeholder and Partnership Management

• Provide vision and active leadership over airport operations, customer experience, growth, and development through strong internal and external stakeholder relationships.
• Work closely with internal and external stakeholders including federal agencies, airlines, terminal operators, cargo companies, tenants, customers, media, elected officials, and community organizations to advance the airport’s business agenda and provide a safe, reliable, world-class experience to customers.

Financial Self-Sustainability

• Lead Operations staff in achieving financial success by managing facility operating expenses and overtime within budget guidelines.
• Ensure a culture of financial accountability demonstrated by regular reviews of operating units’ contracts and all overtime practices.

Leadership and Talent Management

• Optimize staff capabilities and ensure the continuity of the airport's agenda by building a highly talented, flexible, nimble workforce.
• Provide vision and leadership to staff to advance priorities consistent with departmental and agency objectives.
• Clearly and regularly communicate the airport’s vision and mission and provide meaningful and challenging developmental assignments, mentoring, classroom and on-the-job training, proper equipment and resources, and effective communication, coordination, and collaboration among internal and external stakeholders.

Irregular Operations and Airport Emergencies

• Lead efforts with all airport stakeholders to prepare plans for and manage irregular operations and airport emergencies (i.e., inclement weather, infrastructure failures, security incidents etc.).

The incumbent must be available 24/7 to respond to airport emergencies such as aircraft accidents, snowstorms, natural disasters, security-related and other incidents requiring the presence of senior leadership

Minimum Qualifications

Candidates must present the following qualifications to be considered eligible for this position:

• At least 10 years of progressively responsible experience in aviation management or airport operations within a large, complex operating environment.
• Strong leadership capability, demonstrated through the ability to manage, develop, and motivate diverse teams to achieve high performance.
• Ability to report immediately to airport emergencies, inclusive of inclement weather or other irregular operations, 24 hours per day, seven days per week.
• Must possess and maintain a valid driver’s license.

Desired Qualifications

Ideal candidates will present the following profile:

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in Aviation, Transportation, Planning, Engineering, Business, Public Administration, or a related field from an accredited college or university.
• AAAE Certified Member (C.M.) or Accredited Airport Executive (A.A.E) certification, or ICAO International Airport Professional (IAP) certification
• Demonstrated relevant regulatory and operational experience.
• Demonstrated experience in managing diverse teams of staff in a unionized work environment.
• Knowledge of Airport Rules and Regulations
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to establish and maintain positive working relationships with all levels of internal and external stakeholders including air carriers, tenants, vendors, and third-party contractors.
• Knowledge of continually changing Federal and State regulations related to airline operations, airfield operations, Federal Aviation Administration, and air traffic procedures, coupled with an understanding of the National Airspace System
• Ability to develop methods of complying with regulatory requirements given cost and resource constraints.
• Though knowledge of the Airport Certification and Safety standards and the ability to enforce regulatory standards

Selection Process

The application process varies by position, but typically includes an initial phone interview for qualified candidates, followed by a more in-depth interview(s) and/or assessment(s). Selected candidates who are made a conditional job offer will be asked to undergo a background check.

Compensation & Benefits

The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey offers a competitive benefits package, hybrid work options for many positions, and a professional environment that supports development and recognizes achievement.

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