Airport Operations Specialist

About the Role

We are looking for an experienced and proactive Airport Operations Coordinator to join our team based at East Midlands Airport (EMA). This role will be responsible for supporting and coordinating day-to-day airport and airside operational activities, ensuring the smooth and efficient handling of flight, cargo and ground operations.

The successful candidate will work closely with internal operational teams, airlines, ground handling agents, airport authorities and other external stakeholders to ensure daily operations are carried out safely, efficiently and in accordance with operational requirements.

Key Responsibilities

• Coordinate and monitor daily airport operational activities, including flight movements, cargo handling and ground operations.
• Act as a key point of contact between internal teams, airlines, ground handling agents, airport authorities and other operational partners.
• Support the planning and coordination of flight schedules and operational resources to ensure efficient day-to-day operations.
• Monitor operational progress and identify potential delays, disruptions or exceptions, taking appropriate action to minimise operational impact.
• Coordinate operational activities during flight arrivals and departures, ensuring relevant teams are aligned and informed.
• Support the resolution and escalation of operational issues and emergencies in a timely manner.
• Maintain accurate operational records, reports and relevant documentation.
• Ensure all operational activities comply with airport procedures, safety requirements and relevant aviation regulations.
• Support communication and coordination between different operational stakeholders to improve overall efficiency and service quality.
• Participate in operational meetings and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives.
• Be available to support operational requirements outside standard office hours when required.

Requirements

• 3–5 years of experience in airport operations, airside operations, aviation logistics, cargo operations or a similar operational environment.
• Previous experience working at an airport, airline, ground handling company or air cargo operation is highly desirable.
• Good understanding of airport and airside operational processes.
• Experience coordinating multiple stakeholders in a fast-paced operational environment.
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to make decisions under pressure.
• Excellent communication and coordination skills.
• Flexibility to work shifts or provide operational support outside normal working hours when required.
• Right to work in the UK.

Preferred

• Experience in air cargo or express logistics operations.
• Previous experience working at East Midlands Airport or another UK airport.
• Knowledge of aviation safety, security and compliance requirements.
• A full UK driving licence.
• Airside driving experience or relevant airport operational permits.

What We Offer

• The opportunity to work in a fast-paced international logistics and aviation environment.
• Exposure to complex airport and air cargo operations.
• The opportunity to work closely with a wide range of aviation and logistics stakeholders.
• A dynamic working environment with opportunities for professional development.

If you have solid airport operations experience and enjoy working in a fast-paced, hands-on environment, we would love to hear from you.