Job Summary
- Type: full-time
- Location: Harare
- Category: Aviation Operations
- Closing Date: 2026-08-28
Key Responsibilities
- Direct and oversee passenger and aircraft handling operations.
- Ensure adherence to arrival and departure checklists, brand requirements, company procedures and regulatory requirements.
- Participate in daily operations, including shifts, weekends and public holidays where required.
- Manage safety and security outcomes through hazard identification, risk assessment, monitoring and reporting.
- Coordinate VIP, MAAS, PRM and special category guest requirements.
- Maintain and rehearse emergency response, disruption, diversion, delay and business continuity plans.
- Manage on-time performance, including delay mitigation and reporting.
- Support airport ancillary sales performance and process compliance.
- Monitor and report customer service standards and associated KPIs.
- Perform the role of Local Security Contact Officer.
Requirements
- Degree-level education is desirable, or relevant industry experience.
- Demonstrable knowledge of leadership, project management and business solutions.
- Minimum 7-9 years’ relevant experience in a leadership or senior management capacity.
- Experience in highly pressured and multicultural environments within a shift-based management or supervisory role.
- Proven ability to lead, drive results and communicate internally and externally.
- Regional or international exposure is highly advantageous.
How to Apply
About the Company
Etihad Airways is one of the two flag carrier airlines of the United Arab Emirates. Its head office is in Khalifa City, Abu Dhabi, near Zayed International Airport. The airline commenced operations in November 2003 and is the second-largest airline in the UAE after Emirates.
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications and certifications are typically required for an Airport Manager role in Zimbabwe's aviation sector?
A bachelor's degree in Aviation Management, Business Administration, or a related field is standard; many employers also require IATA or ICAO-endorsed certifications such as the IATA Airport Operations Diploma. In Zimbabwe, registration with the Civil Aviation Authority of Zimbabwe (CAAZ) and valid security clearance are mandatory before assuming operational responsibilities at licensed airports.
What does a typical day look like for an Airport Manager working with an international carrier like Etihad Airways in Zimbabwe?
Daily duties include coordinating ground handling, overseeing safety and security compliance with CAAZ regulations, managing local vendor performance, and liaising with airport authorities at Harare or Victoria Falls airports. You’ll also handle incident reporting, staff briefings, and ensure adherence to both Etihad’s global service standards and Zimbabwean aviation legislation.
How does Zimbabwean workplace culture influence expectations for an Airport Manager in aviation operations?
Respect for hierarchy and formal communication channels is valued, especially when interfacing with CAAZ officials or senior airline representatives. Punctuality, strong interpersonal skills, and demonstrated experience navigating bureaucratic processes — such as permit approvals or customs coordination — are highly regarded by local employers and partners.
What realistic career progression paths exist for an Airport Manager in Zimbabwe’s aviation industry?
With proven performance and further certification (e.g., IATA Senior Airport Professional), you may advance to Regional Airport Manager roles covering multiple SADC airports or transition into airline-based operations leadership. Some professionals move into regulatory advisory roles with CAAZ or take on consultancy work supporting airport infrastructure upgrades funded by regional development partners.
What benefits — such as leave, medical aid, or pension — can I realistically expect in this role within Zimbabwe?
Employers typically offer 30 days’ annual leave, statutory sick leave under the Labour Act, and group medical aid through local providers like NSSA-approved schemes or private insurers (e.g., FBC Health or Zimnat). Pension contributions follow the National Social Security Authority (NSSA) framework, and some international carriers supplement this with additional retirement savings plans.
How should I apply for an Airport Manager role with Etihad Airways in Zimbabwe, and what do local hiring managers prioritise?
Applications must be submitted via Etihad’s official careers portal — no local agents or walk-in submissions are accepted. Zimbabwean hiring panels prioritise candidates with verifiable CAAZ-issued operational authorisations, hands-on experience managing third-party ground handlers at Harare International Airport, and fluency in documentation required under Zimbabwe’s Aviation Act and Customs regulations.