Senior Manager Aviation Security

Develop and implement the long-term aviation security strategy for Abu Dhabi Airports. Establish security processes, policies, and programs aligned with General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) requirements and international aviation security standards. Lead the implementation of security master plans, contingency plans, and advanced security technologies to ensure the highest levels of safety and security for passengers, employees, facilities, and airport operations.

Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership & Planning

• Develop and communicate section objectives and plans aligned with departmental and organizational strategic goals.
• Recommend and monitor KPIs for the aviation security function and team members.
• Develop and manage the sectional budget, ensuring efficient utilization of resources.
• Contribute to manpower planning and ensure adequate staffing levels.
• Lead change management initiatives and stakeholder communication activities.
• Identify automation and technology opportunities to improve efficiency and cost optimization.
  

Security Management & Operations

• Develop, maintain, and implement aviation security policies, procedures, and standards.
• Collaborate with the COO and airport General Managers to establish security master plans and contingency plans.
• Oversee the implementation and continuous improvement of security programs across all airports.
• Ensure the protection of passengers, baggage, employees, facilities, and other airport users against unlawful acts.
• Monitor and maintain security equipment to ensure compliance with national and international standards.
• Develop and implement security incident response and emergency management plans.
• Provide expert guidance on security search techniques, control measures, and incident handling.
• Ensure prompt response to security-related requests from pilots and aircraft crews.
• Oversee inspections of operational areas, including hazardous runways and navigational installations where required.
• Stay informed about industry trends, emerging threats, and best practices in aviation security.
  

Reporting, Compliance & Governance

• Ensure adherence to departmental policies, procedures, and regulatory requirements.
• Maintain compliance with HR, legal, risk management, quality assurance, and organizational governance frameworks.
• Participate in and support internal and external audits.
• Prepare and review daily security activity reports, incident reports, and periodic management reports.
• Recommend corrective actions to address compliance gaps and quality issues.
• Promote airport security awareness and foster a proactive security culture across the organization.
  

People Management

• Supervise and evaluate team performance against established objectives.
• Provide coaching, guidance, and constructive feedback to direct reports.
• Identify employee training and development needs, including Emiratization initiatives.
• Support performance management processes and employee development activities.
  

Other Duties

• Perform any additional responsibilities assigned by the reporting manager or line manager to support divisional objectives.

Requirements & Skills

Education

• Bachelor's Degree in Airport Management or a related field.
  

Experience

• Minimum 8 years of experience in Aviation Security Management.
  

Key Skills & Competencies

• Extensive knowledge of aviation security regulations, standards, and compliance requirements.
• Strong crisis management and emergency response coordination capabilities.
• Experience in developing and implementing airport security strategies, policies, and contingency plans.
• Ability to manage security operations across multiple airport environments.
• Strong leadership and people management skills.
• Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with regulatory authorities, law enforcement agencies, and internal stakeholders.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.
• Experience in security technology implementation, automation, and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Ability to prepare reports, manage budgets, and oversee operational performance.
• Commitment to professional development and continuous learning.