Manager, Apron Services (Gia Binh International Airport)

About Gia Binh

Gia Binh International Airport is a nationally strategic aviation infrastructure project, envisioned to shape the future of Vietnam's aviation sector and serve as a driving force for the development of the aviation economy, contributing to the country's overall economic growth in the era of global integration. The project has been entrusted by the Government and the Ministry of Public Security to Masterise Group—one of Vietnam's leading developers in real estate and infrastructure—to act as the investor partnering with the State in creating a landmark of national significance.

With the ambition to achieve international five-star airport service standards and be ranked among the world's Top 10 airports, Gia Binh International Airport is planned according to a next-generation airport city model. The project is developed as a world-class dual-use aviation hub, playing a strategic role in connecting key economic corridors, enhancing national competitiveness, and making a substantive contribution to the development of Vietnam's economy.

Working alongside Gia Binh International Airport represents a unique opportunity for outstanding individuals to take part directly in a historic national undertaking—where professional expertise, international-standard thinking, and a strong sense of service to the nation are recognized and affirmed, together with broad opportunities for career advancement and long-term professional growth.

Join Masterise Group from the very beginning to build the foundations, define new standards, and create lasting value and legacy for your career, and for the pride of Vietnam.

JOB PURPOSE

The Manager, Apron Services is accountable for end-to-end operational oversight of apron and ramp services, including aircraft stand operations, ground handling coordination, ramp vehicle/GSE management, cabin cleaning interfaces, and ramp cargo/baggage handling. The role establishes operational standards, SOPs, and KPIs to ensure safe, compliant, and on-time aircraft turnarounds aligned with airport procedures and IATA IGOM guidance.

The role leads resource planning, operational readiness, and station-level performance management, serving as the single point of accountability for apron service delivery, while coordinating closely with airlines, ATC, and internal operational functions.

KEY ACCOUNTABILITIES

I. Operational Standards, SOPs & Performance Management

1. Develop, maintain, and approve station-level SOPs and operational checklists aligned with company GOM (Ground Operations Manual) and IATA IGOM (International Air Transport Association - Ground Operations Manual) guidance.
2. Implement and enforce airside operational requirements including FOD control, ramp vehicle movement, and apron access protocols.
3. Lead periodic operational and stakeholder reviews; drive corrective action and continuous improvement initiatives.
4. Ensure effective deployment of Team Leads across shifts to meet service level targets.
5. Define and monitor KPIs including OTP, ground damage rates, GSE availability, and training compliance; implement improvement plans where targets are not met.

II. Incident Management, Operational Readiness & Compliance

1. Manage station-level operational incidents (e.g., ground damage, equipment failures, ramp disruptions) and ensure timely root cause review and corrective action.
2. Maintain contingency and irregular operation readiness through structured response plans and cross-functional coordination.
3. Ensure apron operational compliance with airport regulations and internal safety procedures; coordinate with Safety and HSE teams for investigations or regulatory matters as required.
4. Coordinate operationally with airlines, terminal operations, and ATC to support escalation and resolution during disruptions.

III. People Management & Team Development

1. Lead manpower planning, rostering, and resource allocation to meet operational demand and SLA commitments.
2. Oversee vendor and contractor performance related to apron services, including GSE maintenance and third-party ramp services.
3. Provide leadership, performance management, and succession planning for Team Leads and senior ramp supervisors.
4. Oversee competency development and recurrent training compliance across apron personnel.

JOB REQUIREMENTS

Qualifications & Work Experience:

• Relevant tertiary education in operations, logistics, engineering, or related field preferred. Substantial operational experience may be considered in lieu of formal qualifications.
• 7–10 years of experience in airside ground handling or airport operations with progressive supervisory/management responsibility, including demonstrable ownership of apron or ground operations.
• Strong working knowledge of IATA IGOM, airside safety regulations, aircraft turnaround processes, and ground operations.
• Demonstrated experience in KPI setting and operational performance management (e.g., OTP, ground damage metrics, GSE availability, training compliance).

Certifications & Licenses:

• Operational familiarity with aircraft pushback and towing procedures; certification is advantageous but not mandatory.
• Valid airside driving permit and civil driver's license.
• ATC radio communication authorization for airside operations preferred.
• SMS and/or airside safety training certification preferred.