Senior Manager ORAT

Date: 27 Mar 2025

Location: Abu Dhabi, AE

Company: Etihad Airways


 

 

 

Synopsis

The Senior Manager – ORAT Activities will lead and manage all Operational Readiness and Airport Transfer efforts for the successful transition to the new cargo terminal. This includes developing the Concept of Operations (CONOPS), conducting gap analyses, managing change initiatives, and ensuring the operational systems, and human readiness of the terminal. This leadership position requires strong project management, process improvement, and stakeholder management skills, along with expertise in cargo terminal operations and automation systems.

Accountabilities

•    Lead the development of the Concept of Operations (CONOPS) for the new cargo terminal in collaboration with operations, logistics, engineering, and IT teams
•    Ensure CONOPS reflects end-to-end terminal operations including cargo flow, automation systems, security, customer service, and staff roles
•    Conduct a comprehensive gap analysis between current and future terminal operations to identify operational, technical, and process gaps
•    Work with operational leads to close identified gaps and improve efficiency, functionality, and compliance of the new terminal
•    Develop and execute a change management strategy to support transition efforts, addressing resistance and fostering adoption of new systems and workflows
•    Maintain clear and consistent communication with staff and stakeholders regarding upcoming changes, timelines, and expectations
•    Identify training needs across all staff and stakeholder groups, including those operating automated systems and cargo equipment
•    Coordinate with department heads and training teams to define training requirements and outcomes tailored to each function
•    Design and oversee the execution of training programs to ensure operational readiness and safe, efficient adoption of new terminal procedures
•    Collaborate with stakeholders including operations, IT, HR, regulatory bodies, contractors, and vendors to align all ORAT activities with project milestones
•    Develop and manage a comprehensive transition plan that maps the move from current terminal operations to the new terminal, including key readiness milestones
•    Ensure all terminal systems, automation platforms, and operational workflows are tested and validated prior to go-live
•    Lead operational trials and readiness testing, identifying and resolving issues before the terminal becomes fully operational

•    Monitor transition progress, adjust execution plans where necessary, and ensure a coordinated, disruption-free handover of terminal operations.
•    Ensure ongoing reporting of ORAT progress to senior leadership, highlighting key risks, mitigation strategies, and readiness status
 

Education & Experience

•    Bachelor’s degree in aviation management, Business Administration, Logistics, Engineering, or a related field (Master’s degree preferred).
•    Minimum 8–10 years of experience in airport or cargo terminal operations, with at least 3–5 years in a leadership role overseeing ORAT or transition programs.
•    Proven experience in managing large-scale operational transitions, especially in automated or logistics-heavy environments.
•    Strong understanding of cargo handling processes, automation systems, and airport operational protocols.
•    Demonstrated experience in stakeholder management, training design, change management, and cross-functional coordination.
•    Excellent project management skills with the ability to plan, execute, and track complex programs.
•    Strong communication and presentation skills, with experience engaging senior leadership and external stakeholders.
•    Familiarity with regulatory and safety standards in aviation and cargo terminal environments.

About Etihad Airport Services- Cargo

Etihad Airport Services Cargo is the sole cargo handling provider at Zayed International Airport, Abu Dhabi.

We serve the cargo needs of more than 25 online carriers and many more offline carriers through Road Feeder Services. EAS Cargo provides import and export services and comprehensive logistics processes for airlines, freight forwarders, and other stakeholders.  

The current cargo terminals at Zayed International Airport cover 41,000 sq m of storage facilities that offer a full range of cargo services, including a fully equipped perishables center, temperature-controlled rooms, pallet screening, state-of-the-art CCTV for valuable cargo, and 24/7 end-to-end cargo support, including build and break, documentation, airside transports, special product handling, including perishables, and pharmaceuticals. Our innovative systems allow track and trace through our cargo facilities, better control of short connecting shipments, and real-time status updates.

 

We are the cargo handlers for the Abu Dhabi F1 event and other special projects. With its strategic location in Abu Dhabi, Etihad Airport Services Cargo plays a vital role in facilitating global trade and connectivity, serving as a key hub for air cargo operations in the region.