Aviation Readiness Manager

At Melbourne Airport, we're playing a vital role in supporting Melbourne's growth and connectivity through major projects like the Third Runway (M3R). We're now seeking a dedicated Aviation Readiness Manager to ensure this once-in-a-generation runway project is ready for safe, seamless, day-one operations.
As our Aviation Readiness Manager, you'll lead the planning, coordination and delivery of the entire Operational Readiness and Airport Transfer (ORAT) program for the Third Runway. You'll bring together internal teams, Airservices Australia, airlines, industry groups, regulators and contractors to ensure every operational element is fully tested, validated and ready for live use.
Your work will directly support Melbourne's continued growth by expanding airfield capacity, enhancing airspace design and ensuring airlines, pilots and passengers benefit from world-class operational readiness.
Explore how we are thinking big with exciting projects like the Third Runway, state-of-the-art terminals, and thriving business park developments. You can also learn more about life at Melbourne Airport – our culture, values, and what makes us unique at corporate/our-culture-and-values. Join us in shaping the future of aviation as we propel Melbourne Airport towards becoming Australia's favourite Airport destination.
Key responsibilities:
The role's duties and accountabilities include, but are not limited to:
Develop and deliver a comprehensive ORAT plan in line with best practice and CASA frameworks.
Map out and drive operational readiness activities, milestones and stakeholder accountabilities.
Lead end-to-end planning, validation and trial exercises, from desktop to full-scale live testing.
Facilitate clear engagement with Airservices Australia, airlines, AusALPA, airport tenants and other key stakeholders.
Ensure robust change management practices that prioritise safety and compliance.
Collaborate closely with front-line operational teams, making sure they're informed, trained and part of the journey.
Maintain strong governance and risk management for a seamless transition from project build to live operations.
The successful candidate will have:
You'll be an experienced aviation professional with a strong background in airport operations, infrastructure projects and ORAT delivery. You know how to plan, lead and influence in complex environments, keeping safety and operational excellence front of mind.
Minimum 5 years' experience in airport operations and aviation infrastructure.
Proven experience managing ORAT or similar operational transition programs.
Strong working knowledge of aviation regulations, aeronautical data, ICAO Annex 14 and CASA MOS Part 139.
Demonstrated success engaging with stakeholders at all levels.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills with the ability to simplify the complex.
High-level problem-solving and critical thinking skills.
Ability to lead by influence and champion a culture of safety, quality and operational readiness.
Tertiary qualifications in Aviation Management, Engineering or Project Management advantegous
Project Management accreditation (e.g. PRINCE2 or PMP) also looked upon favourably
We understand that not everyone will feel they meet all of these 100%. However, if you feel you have the attitude and aptitude to grow within our team, we invite you to apply and have a conversation with us about this position.
About the Company:
Melbourne Airport (Australia Pacific Airports Corporation) is proud to be one of Australia's premier transport hubs and Victoria's gateway to the world, connecting us to the global marketplace. We are committed to
creating connections that matter
and enhancing the traveller experience across every aspect of our organisation to deliver our vision of becoming
Australia's favourite Airport destination
. Currently, in an exciting phase of change, we are delivering rewarding career opportunities, making Melbourne Airport a dynamic and fast-paced place to work for our people.
APAC is a majority Australian-owned private company that also operates Launceston Airport, the tourism gateway to Tasmania and an industry multi-award-winning airport.
Culture and Values:
By joining the team at Melbourne Airport, you will work within a friendly, high-performance culture with a focus on our people and their development.
Our vision is to become Australia's favourite Airport destination and our people are paramount to achieving this success. We provide a supportive environment, with values that encourage all of our employees to Be You, Think Big, Own it and Work Together.
Benefits:
Free access to Higher State, our state-of-the-art Fitness Club & Wellness Hub at Novotel & ibis Styles Airport hotel.
Airport car parking 24 hours/365 days a year for both business and personal use
Hybrid flexible working arrangements
Airport Holiday, an additional day of leave
Wellness Day, a further additional day of leave
Discounted onsite childcare at Creative Garden Early Learning
Mental health and well-being initiatives, including Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
Long-term career and professional development opportunities
Active social culture and participation in a range of social impact days and activities
Signature Experiences including an airfield family day, and kids' footy day
Access to an employee benefits scheme including access to corporate rates and airport retailer discounts (including SkyBus)
APAC is committed to weaving Diversity into our DNA. We believe that Diversity and Inclusion will help us realise our greatest potential as a company, and maximise the potential of all our team members. We strive to create a culture where our team members understand that each individual is unique and that embracing diversity makes us more flexible, productive, and creative.
APAC provides equal opportunity and advancement in employment regardless of gender, age, sexual orientation, race, ethnicity, cultural background, caring responsibilities, disability or socioeconomic background. We encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds who share our workplace values of Being You, Thinking Big, Owning It and Working Together.
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