Manager Aerodrome Certifications

Job Description

The Manager of Aerodrome Certification leads the Aerodrome Certifications team to ensure the effective delivery of both GCAA regulatory requirements and Abu Dhabi Airports’ internal certification processes. The role is responsible for deploying resources efficiently to ensure that service delivery, operational procedures, safety, and compliance meet or exceed regulatory standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement certification strategies and plans for all Abu Dhabi Airports, ensuring alignment with organizational goals and regulatory requirements.
• Review and maintain the airport’s Quality Management System (QMS), including Aerodrome Certification documentation, to comply with industry standards and best practices.
• Conduct audits, inspections, and assessments to identify gaps in processes, safety, compliance, and service delivery, ensuring corrective actions are implemented effectively.
• Monitor non-conformance trends and key performance indicators (KPIs) to identify areas for improvement and take timely corrective action.
• Identify operational hazards and associated risks related to GCAA regulations, and ensure mitigation measures are implemented and effective.
• Maintain personal and team competence on GCAA regulatory requirements and Abu Dhabi Airports operational standards.
• Support aerodrome projects (including AMC-59) to ensure development of infrastructure meets regulatory and operational requirements.
• Verify that aerodrome project compliance aligns with GCAA regulations and Abu Dhabi Airports aerodrome standards.
• Prepare and present reports on quality metrics, audits, non-conformance issues, and corrective actions, providing recommendations to senior management.
• Act as the primary point of contact for GCAA regulatory matters and coordinate with stakeholders to implement CAPA plans.
• Represent Abu Dhabi Airports in GCAA meetings, industry forums, and working groups to remain informed of regulatory changes and best practices.
• Contribute to the Safety Management System (SMS) by actively supporting implementation of SMS Manual section 4.6.3.
• Provide guidance and coaching to internal teams to maintain accountability and continuous improvement in certification and compliance processes.

Skill & Experience

• Strong knowledge of aerodrome operations, ICAO and local regulatory frameworks, and Safety Management Systems (SMS).
• Proven experience managing cross-functional teams and implementing regulatory and safety management requirements.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills with strong attention to detail.
• Clear and effective written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present certification data and reports.
• Results-oriented, with a focus on continuous improvement in processes and compliance.
• Collaborative, with strong interpersonal and teamwork abilities.
• Bachelor’s degree in Aviation, Aviation Safety, or a related field, or equivalent industry experience.
• At least 3 years in aerodrome operations, aerodrome projects, or Safety Management Systems in a supervisory or management role.
• Extensive operational and organizational experience within an airport environment.
• Proven experience conducting audits, inspections, and assessments in an airport setting.