DFW GSE Manager

Swissport is a renowned global leader in aviation services, operating in a dynamic and fast-paced industry. The company specializes in Ground Handling, Cargo Handling, and Passenger Services, catering to over 300 million passengers annually across multiple locations worldwide. Swissport’s mission is to provide the aviation industry with consistent and tailor-made solutions globally to enhance customer experience. With a commitment to excellence and innovation, Swissport values its people as the key differentiator from competitors, emphasizing core values such as Show You Care, Do the Right Things, and Win as a Team. This strong cultural foundation supports Swissport’s reputation as a trustworthy and efficient aviation services provider.

This role is a full-time position focusing on operational, personnel, and administrative management within the assigned GSE (Ground Support Equipment) and fueling maintenance organization. The successful candidate will ensure the implementation of the fleet management strategy specific to their department, overseeing operational efficiency and compliance while managing a team and resources effectively. The role offers various benefits, including a comprehensive health and wellness package, 401(k) plan with company match, paid vacation time, sick leave, and company-paid holidays, reflecting Swissport’s commitment to employee well-being and long-term career development.

As an Operational Manager in GSE and fueling maintenance, you will be responsible for defining and executing a maintenance strategy that may involve outsourcing or partnering with third-party service providers. You will establish an optimal organizational structure that specifies required roles and staffing levels, balancing support staff and mechanics efficiently. This entails meticulous manpower and equipment planning to meet operational demands.

Your responsibilities will include managing human resources in partnership with vice presidents and general managers, overseeing promotions, performance tracking relative to standards, incentive schemes, training programs, and succession planning to build a strong talent pool. You will develop and implement best-in-class operational processes that support business requirements while focusing on total cost of ownership and financial models for competitive advantage and operational efficiency.

Additionally, you will baseline existing processes involving equipment budgets, acquisition, repairs, maintenance, and disposal, and strive to create lean processes that minimize waste and maximize efficiency. Your expertise in fleet and capital equipment sourcing will be instrumental, including contract negotiations, supplier management, and identifying new supply sources and programs.

This role carries P&L responsibility for assigned business units, including defining annual budgets and medium-term strategic plans. You will ensure compliance with all legal and safety regulations at both local and Swissport standards levels. Collaboration with regional operational teams and service businesses will be essential to develop strategies tailored to regional profitability and business models.

Maintaining all ground service equipment at the Swissport station, ensuring availability of adequate resources for safe operations, and overseeing the correct and safe operation of safety devices, machinery, vehicles, and equipment by trained and qualified personnel fall under your responsibilities. You will enforce safety rules and lead quality, health, safety, and environmental activities aimed at reducing employee injuries, aircraft incidents, and equipment damage.

The ideal candidate holds a bachelor’s degree in business or a related field with at least 10 years of supervisory or management experience in GSE maintenance or a similar field. Technical backgrounds in mechanical, hydraulic, or electrical systems are advantageous. Strong organizational, leadership, and communication skills, along with experience managing multiple projects and a customer-focused mindset, are vital for success. Familiarity with computer-aided maintenance tools and compliance systems like Maximo is also expected.

Joining Swissport means becoming part of an inclusive and diverse workplace that fosters equal opportunity for all employees while connecting the world through aviation service excellence.