Senior Manager Airport Emergency Planning

The Senior Manager of Airport Emergency Planning is responsible for the development, management, and maintenance of the corporate emergency plan for Abu Dhabi Airport operations. This role ensures contingency measures are in place, coordinates mutual-aid collaborations, and manages emergency response protocols, facilities, and training programs. The position requires expertise in aviation emergency planning and compliance with regulatory standards, including GCAA CAR Part XI, CAR Part X Appendix 5, and directives from health authorities. This strategic role ensures a high level of emergency preparedness across Abu Dhabi Airports in line with international best practices.

Responsibilities

1. Develop and implement risk-based emergency response practices across ADAIRPORTS.
2. Analyze and interpret GCAA and ICAO standards for regulatory compliance.
3. Provide strategic guidance for emergency planning and risk management.
4. Develop and review Airport Emergency Plans (AEP), policies, and procedures annually with quarterly evaluations.
5. Design and execute full-scale and partial emergency simulation exercises.
6. Collaborate with stakeholders to align emergency response protocols with safety management system risk registers.
7. Lead and manage the Airport Emergency Planning department, including staffing, budgeting, recruitment, and training.
8. Oversee the design, implementation, and management of emergency processes to meet GCAA regulations.
9. Supervise the development and delivery of emergency response training programs, including Immediate Care Team training.
10. Manage emergency facilities, including the Emergency Operations Centre, Gold Command, and related equipment.
11. Assume the role of advisor during emergencies, providing strategic guidance to executive management.
12. Evaluate emergency responses through official reports and provide recommendations for improvement.
13. Liaise with internal and external stakeholders, including police, civil defense, health authorities, airlines, and other entities, to ensure effective emergency coordination.
14. Foster collaboration and communication to improve understanding and compliance with emergency plans.
15. Chair Aerodrome Emergency Committee meetings to develop coordinated emergency plans.
16. Mentor and empower staff, conduct performance evaluations, and recommend training programs.
17. Promote a high-performance culture and manage the achievement of departmental objectives.
18. Prepare and manage the department's annual budget.

Requirements and Skills

1. In-depth knowledge of the Incident Command System (ICS), emergency preparedness, disaster management, family assistance, and critical incident stress management (CISM).
2. Expert understanding of aviation emergency response plans and aviation regulations, including GCAA and ICAO regulations.
3. Proficiency in Arabic and English with strong negotiation, influencing, and leadership skills.

Education and Qualifications

1. Technical diploma or university degree in Aviation Management, Safety Management Systems, Business Continuity Management, or related fields.
2. Diploma or certification in Aviation Emergency Response and Family Assistance is preferred.

Experience

1. At least 8 years of experience in the aviation industry, with significant exposure to emergency planning and crisis management.
2. Minimum 8 years in managerial roles, preferably with project management experience related to airport or airline crisis plans, disaster response, or similar.