Unit Manager

3 days ago


Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia dnata catering Full time $80,000 - $120,000 per year

Want to Elevate your career to a Higher Altitude?

Exceptional and Unique Leadership Role.

Join dnata catering & retail where the sky truly is the limit. Be part of

a Global Brand, market leader and premier inflight catering

partnerto the world's best Airlines.

AVIATION SUPPORT BUSINESS OF THE YEAR 2025

AUSTRALASIAs AIRLINE CATERER OF THE YEAR 2025

We are seeking a professional and standout individual to join our Darwin Airport catering team as Unit Manager, on a permanent full-time basis.

More about this role:

The Unit Manager is responsible to ensure the overall efficient operation of the facility and that national standards are achieved. The role will manage reporting and compliance and see that company policies are adhered to and maintained through direct leadership with the entire team.

This role will lead the business forward in line with the company's' vision and mission whilst controlling costs and maintaining sustainability with service, quality, and culture. You will plan and develop unit specific strategies with the team to drive results, ensuring business is on track to meet its goals and KPI's.

In a nutshell, your main responsibilities are:

  • Develop and implement strategic goals and action plans to meet changing business requirements that aligns with company and personal goals and KPI's.
  • Manage the day-to-day operational activities of the Unit and deliver business enhancement solutions based on the unit needs.
  • Manage controllable operational expenses where possible, in line with budgets.
  • Oversee the development of staff with front line leadership within the unit team. Encourage and support development and skill efficiencies and effectiveness with multiple departments.
  • To build and maintain a healthy working relationship between Airline Customers, management, employees, local TWU delegates and local TWU officials.
  • Be accountable for financial, risk and facilities management whilst establishing targets for cost savings through efficiencies and overhead reductions in the leadership team.
  • Ensure all team members comply with Company Standards, Health & Safety, Airside Safety Manual, Safety Management System, Cabin Service Manual, and other Regulatory Standards.
  • Assist support teams through audits with our Airline partners and regulatory bodies.
  • Ensure all People & Culture matters within the Unit including recruitment, complaint investigations, performance management are managed to company policy.
  • Ensure new security legislation procedures and process are adopted, implemented, and maintained with the unit team in line with company standards.
  • Support Planning and Production Management with meal/food productivity/quality and identify opportunities for improvement.
  • Conduct regular department meetings and townhall briefings to encourage group understanding and input about KPI targets and measurements.
  • Ensures leadership and operations teams are trained, competent and given support and resources pertaining to Facility, Safety, Security and expectations of the business.

What do you need to be successful in securing this role?

  • A proven ability to manage a team of 40+ personnel.
  • Relevant tertiary qualifications are preferred.
  • At least 5 years' experience in a managerial role is essential.
  • Substantial exposure to Manufacturing, Supply Chain 3PL, or Food Distribution
  • Experience within the Aviation sector desired but not essential.
  • Exceptional people skills, with the ability to negotiate and trouble shoot.
  • Solid leadership agility, diplomacy, and ability to resolve complex problems.
  • Flexibility to work both on the floor and in the office as required.
  • High energy and results driven with the ability to work across and within teams.
  • Strong communication skills, both written and verbal.
  • Excellent time management skills of self and others.
  • Good understanding of HACCP / Food Safety / WHS and Quality Assurance.
  • Good PC skills and an ability to work with an automated time and attendance system.
  • Displays business and industry acumen understanding.
  • Competent in documentation and records management using the Microsoft Office
  • Lean/Six Sigma or similar PM experience advantageous, but not essential
  • Obtain a cleared National Police Check, as you will be working in the Aviation sector.

What's in it for you?

  • Competitive Salary.
  • 5 weeks Annual Leave.
  • Free parking, daily staff meals, uniforms provided.
  • Career development and progression with national relocation opportunities.
  • Access to Tailored Employee Novated Lease program
  • Be part of a close knit and dedicated team that are committed to excellence.
  • Discounts at hundreds of retailers (such as Woolworths, Caltex and JB HiFi), discounted health insurance, and online wellbeing resources.

Your Employer:

Part of the Emirates Group, we are Australia's largest inflight catering and retail partner, specialising in inflight meal production, bulk food manufacturing, and retail management. Chosen by many of the world's top airlines, we operate 16 catering facilities across 10 cities, employ over 4,000 people, produce over 64 million meals, and service over 250 thousand flights each year.

Want to know more about dnata catering and our global businesses? Visits our Australian careers website   and watch a short video here:

Does this role sound perfect for you? If so, we want to hear from you

To start the journey of joining our operational team, click the link below and upload your resume and cover letter that outlines your suitability for the role.


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