Vice President, Ground Operations (Relocation to Bangladesh)
US-Bangla Airlines Ltd. · Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Apply & track with Apply EdgeFounded in July 2014 and headquartered in Dhaka, Bangladesh, US-Bangla Airlines has grown into Bangladesh's largest private passenger airline. Guided by its motto, "Fly Fast, Fly Safe," the airline operates an extensive network across Asia and beyond. With a modern fleet of ATR 72-600, Boeing 737-800, and Airbus A330-300 aircraft, US-Bangla continues to expand its routes and strengthen its position as a leading regional carrier.This role is based in Dhaka, Bangladesh. For the selected candidate, the company will provide visa support, furnished accommodation (apartment or hotel), and office pick-up and drop-off transportation.Primary purpose of the positionProvides strategic and operational leadership for all ground operations across the US-Bangla Airlines network, ensuring safe, secure, on-time, and cost-effective ground operations at airports and a consistent customer experience.Level of responsibility/accountability - Sets the ground operations strategy, policies, and standards, and is accountable to the MD for safety and regulatory compliance, on-time performance, customer service quality, and the ground operations budget.Enabling environment - A member of the senior leadership team, leading the heads of Guest Services & Experience, Ramp Services, Baggage Services, Load Control and Cabin Appearance & Safety, and building a strong safety and service culture across all stations.Internal/External focus of the job - Internally, Flight Operations, Engineering, Commercial, Safety and Quality, Security, Finance, and HR. Externally, CAAB, airport authorities, Biman Ground Handling at HSIA, ground handling agents, customs, immigration, and IATA.Duties and ResponsibilitiesGuest Services:Passenger Services: Lead check-in, boarding, lounges, and special assistance to deliver a safe, efficient, and consistent passenger experience.Baggage Services: Oversee baggage handling, mishandled baggage, and lost and found, driving down mishandling rates and claims.Ramp Operations and GSE:Ramp and Turnaround: Ensure safe loading and efficient aircraft turnaround, with close load control coordination and ground handling standards across the ATR 72-600, Boeing 737-800, and Airbus A330-300 fleet.GSE Management: Manage the ground support equipment fleet, including maintenance, serviceability, replacement planning, and procurement.Station and Airport Operations:Station Management: Lead domestic and international station managers and ensure consistent standards at every station.Handling Agents and SLAs: Select, contract, and oversee ground handling agents against service level agreements and performance audits.Airport Coordination: Manage relationships with airport authorities, CAAB, and Biman Ground Handling at HSIA on slots, facilities, and handling issues.OTP and Disruption Management: Drive on-time performance and lead the ground response to irregular operations, delays, diversions, and disruptions.Safety, Compliance and Standards:Safety and Security: Embed SMS in ground operations and ensure compliance with CAAB, aviation security, and dangerous goods requirements.Industry Standards: Align procedures with IATA ISAGO and the IATA Airport Handling Manual (AHM), and lead audit readiness.Resources and Performance:Budget and Cost Control: Own the ground operations budget and drive cost efficiency without compromising safety or service.Workforce and Training: Lead workforce planning, rostering policy, recruitment, and training to meet network growth.KPIs and Reporting: Set and track ground operations KPIs (OTP, turnaround times, baggage performance, customer satisfaction, safety events) and report to the CEO.CompetenciesCore Competencies:Safety Awareness and ComplianceCustomer Service ExcellenceProfessional Integrity and Ethical ConductTeam CollaborationAdaptability and Continuous LearningStrategic ThinkingDecision Making and Problem SolvingPeople DevelopmentChange ManagementAccountability and Performance ManagementFunctional Competencies:Strategic Leadership: Ability to set direction for ground operations in line with network growth and business goals.Operational Excellence: Proven record of improving safety, OTP, turnaround, and service quality.Stakeholder and Regulator Management: Builds strong relationships with CAAB, airport authorities, handling agents, and internal leaders.Crisis Management: Calm, decisive leadership during disruptions, emergencies, and irregular operations.Financial Acumen: Skilled in budgeting, cost control, and contract negotiation.People Leadership: Develops and motivates large, diverse, multi-station teams.Recruitment RequirementA seasoned ground operations leader with extensive airline or airport experience and a strong safety and compliance track record.Education:A Bachelor's degree from a reputed university; a Master's degree or MBA is preferred.IATA ground operations certifications will be a plus.Experience:15+ years of experience in airline or airport ground operations, including at least 5 years in a senior leadership role.Language Requirements:Fluency in written and spoken English.