Manager Airfield Performance

MAKE IT NEW

At Sydney Airport, the future of air travel is shaped by you.

As a team, we connect the world. More than just a hub of activity and boundless energy, we’re creating a destination of amazing experiences. Like seeing wonderful moments unfold in front of you, knowing “I made that possible!”.

Dynamic. Fast-paced. We thrive in a place where fresh challenges land daily. Backed by positive and supportive team players and inspiring leaders, we adapt to change. Driven to grow. Owning every action. To do things better.

As smart, problem-solvers, we are always learning and growing. And that’s easier to do alongside passionate experts, as we collaborate across teams readily sharing our knowledge.

Each day is a new journey, as we bring an exciting vision to life. With significant capital investment in new, improved infrastructure, there’s never been a better time to expand your potential at Sydney Airport. The range of responsibilities and diverse pathways you can take on with us, are surprising.

We are SYD. United in the pride that comes with welcoming the world at Australia’s premier gateway.

About the role

As Manager Airfield Operations at Sydney Airport, you’ll play a key leadership role in one of Australia’s most complex and dynamic aviation environments. This is a critical position responsible for ensuring the ongoing safety, efficiency, and compliance of our airfield and ramp operations. You’ll oversee a high-performing frontline team, managing daily operations and leading initiatives that uphold SYD’s operating certificate and reputation as a world-class airport. With safety at the core of everything we do, your work will have direct impact on maintaining operational continuity and setting the standard for airfield excellence.

This is more than just an operational role — it’s a unique opportunity to lead from the front, shape culture, and invest in people. You'll be empowered to mentor, coach, and upskill your team, fostering a high-performance environment that prioritises safety, collaboration, and professional growth. If you’re an experienced leader with a passion for airfield operations and developing talent, this role offers the chance to make a tangible difference in a fast-paced, purpose-driven setting.

In this role, you will have the opportunity to

• Lead and inspire a team of airfield and ramp operations professionals, fostering a trust-based culture through mentoring, coaching, and ongoing development.
• Drive a culture of continuous improvement in safety by providing teams with the right tools, resources, and processes to perform their roles effectively.
• Monitor and drive operational performance and compliance, including oversight of AOL holders, through audits, incident reviews, and collaboration with internal teams.
• Ensure safe, compliant, and efficient airfield operations in line with regulations, internal standards, and the Airport Operations Manual.
• Contribute to the development and delivery of strategic business plans, including budget preparation and alignment with Group Operations strategies.
• Provide expert input into planning processes and key operational decisions, including board papers, ramp and airfield works, and wildlife management initiatives.

About you

• Proven experience in airport, airline or ground handling operations, with a strong understanding of safety, environmental, and operational performance requirements.
• Strong leadership capabilities with demonstrated success in coaching teams, managing performance, and fostering a high-performing, safety-focused culture.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills, with the ability to influence, negotiate and collaborate across diverse teams.
• Experience in monitoring operational performance, managing audits, and using data to drive insights and continuous improvement.
• High-level proficiency in Microsoft Office tools including Excel, PowerPoint and Power BI, with the ability to present and report clearly.
• A working knowledge of WHS and CASA regulations related to aerodromes and ground operations (desirable).

What we offer

To find out more about the amazing work environment here at SYD, be sure to check out the Join us section of Sydney Airport’s website, where you can also see more about our flexible culture and work practices, alongside our other Employee benefits, or take a look at our LinkedIn Sydney Airport: Life page.

Make it Amazing

SYD is an Equal Opportunity Employer and encourages all suitably qualified applicants to apply, including First Nations Australians, and people from culturally diverse backgrounds.