Emirates Group

Awarded “Ground Handler of the Year” for tenth consecutive years, dnata is committed to its vision of being the world’s most admired air services provider. Led from our Global Headquarters in Dubai and with international and domestic operations spanning six continents, our mission is to deliver the promises our customers make.

dnata is one of the world’s largest air services providers, operating in 129 airports. Offering ground handling, cargo, travel, and flight catering services in thirty-five countries across six continents, dnata is a trusted partner for over 300 airline customers around the world. Each day, the company handles over 1,900 flights, moves over 8,500 tons of cargo, books over 16,000 hotel stays, and uplifts over 320,000 meals.

dnata is seeking a dynamic Chief Operating Officer (COO) to lead our USA Ground operations. Based in Orlando and reporting directly to the CEO, you’ll be a key member of the Senior Leadership Team, driving strategic initiatives that prioritize safety, service excellence, and operational performance across our national network.

In this pivotal role, you’ll oversee all aspects of ground operations, safety, human resources, and ground service equipment, while partnering closely with finance and commercial teams to enhance profitability and customer satisfaction. You’ll lead a high-performing team, foster a culture of continuous improvement, and ensure compliance with all regulatory and governance standards.

In this role, you will:

• Lead ground operations across 14 locations and 2,300 aviation professionals.
• Develop and execute strategic plans that align with long-term business goals and operational excellence.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to meet service, safety, revenue, and profitability targets.
• Resolve complex operational challenges through initiative-taking analysis and solution implementation.
• Champion talent strategies, including recruitment, development, succession planning, and retention.
• Ensure compliance to all company, federal, state, and local business requirements.
• Promote a safety-first culture, embedding safety into daily operations and leadership practices.
• Manage operational budgets and assets, driving cost efficiency and financial performance.
• Strengthen customer relationships, ensuring service level agreements and expectations are met.
• Model dnata’s values, leading by example and fostering a high-performance, inclusive culture.

To be considered for the role, you must meet the below requirements:

• Degree in Business or related field and 10-12 years' relevant experience or training, (or equivalent combination of education and experience).
• Experience in the logistics, freight or aviation industry.
• Proven track record in strategic and tactical operations management and leadership, with oversight of multiple facilities over various states and/or countries.
• Must possess and maintain a valid state driver's license, as well as any necessary FAA or airport-required identification, seals, or authorizations.  
• Must pass a pre-employment drug screening and background check.  
• Proficient in reading, writing, and speaking English.  
• Be willing to travel as required.

You will have an edge if you have:

• Experience leading Sales, Marketing, Human Resources, Finance, and Safety functions within the airline industry.  
• Knowledge of asset management, system management, government regulations and compliance, budgeting, and expense analysis.  

At dnata, part of Emirates Group, we are committed to providing our employees with opportunities to grow and develop in their careers. So, if you are looking for a challenging and rewarding opportunity, apply today and join our team!

Accommodations

To perform this job successfully, you must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily.  The requirements listed above are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Work Environment:

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Physical Demands:

Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions, provided such accommodation does not create undue hardship for the Company.