The Head of OCC is an exciting role in our integrated Operations Control Centre (OCC) with direct accountability for both the Operations Control and Crew Control teams.

You will report directly to the VP Operations being responsible for the management of the Operations Control and Crew Control teams whilst providing oversight and ensuring compliance with relevant legislative and regulatory requirements, as well as company rules and policies, related to the planning of our aircrew and fleet.  Developing, leading and directing all aspects of the integrated Operations Control Centre, whilst developing and maintaining effective relationships with key stakeholders, you will seek opportunities for continuous improvement of all OCC processes in support of Flight Operations.

This role may require occasional shift work or working on weekends and public holidays.  

Duties will include, but not limited to;

• Management oversight of the daily commercial flying programme in accordance with company KPI expectations and budget forecast.
• Compliance and oversight of all OCC processes and procedures.
• Preparation and control of departmental budget.
• Ensure any aircraft activity pre / post schedule publication e.g. base training, aircraft delivery flights, PR events etc. is co-ordinated by OCC team.
• Operational reporting for Senior Management.
• Recruitment of all OCC Staff.
• Performance Management of OCC Managers and the Crewing Manager.
• Representing OCC at company relevant meetings and external body meetings.
• Preparation and issuance of OCC Notices.
• TM-CAD Audit preparation for OCC.
• Review schedule performance and delay statistics to identify and recommend adjustments.
• Establish and implement corrective action plans where non-conformities are identified.
• Responsible and accountable for identifying safety risks in accordance with risk assessment process and ensure that adequate risk mitigation steps are appropriately implemented in order to ascertain safety within the workplace.
• Provide cover for OCC Manager and Crewing Manager as required.
• Analyse and identify areas for cost reduction and recommend the same to management. Design and implement cost reduction plans across the identified areas after achieving a consensus and obtaining the buy-in of all concerned stakeholders.
• Monitor OCC staff to ensure goals, standards and targets are set and achieved. Encourage personal development, training and manage the cross functional process.
• Actively participates in crisis management situations.
• Oversight of all OCC office equipment through inventory management.
• Develop OCC staff and working practices, policies and procedures through the production and management of the departmental OPM.
• Assess existing operational systems and ensure that they continue to meet the current and future demands of the airline. Where required, research, evaluate suitability and recommend suitable replacement IT systems.
• Participate in the Safety Action Group (SAG), as required.
• Promote corporate culture for safety and security through training and promotion activities.

Essential Skills and Qualifications

• Significant experience in an OCC or Operational environment with proven ability to manage dynamic and complex operational scenarios, balancing competing business needs without compromising safety.
• Conversant with EASA regulations, FTL’s and Scheduling Agreements.
• Excellent knowledge of both Operations Control and Crew Control.
• People management and leadership experience.
• Proven experience in a fast-paced role both face to face and / or over the telephone.
• 5 O Levels at grade C/5 and above (or equivalent) including English and Maths.
• Fluent in both spoken and written English.
• IT literate and proficient in the use of MS Office.
• Excellent communication skills, with tact, diplomacy and the ability to listen and resolve problems whilst remaining professional.
• Assertive and decisive with the ability to cope with a fast-moving work environment.
• Highly organised with well-developed time management and prioritisation skills.
• Excellent attention to detail with an analytical approach and the ability to continually multitask.
• Highly adaptable with the ability to react quickly to events whilst remaining calm and patient.
• Ability to build and manage relationships at all levels and work collaboratively.
• A passion and enthusiasm for aviation.
• Excellent team player able to work in a tight-knit and diverse operational environment in line with our Universal Air values.
• At least 3 years’ supervisory experience within a Commercial Airline OCC department.
• An in-depth knowledge and experience of using operational software including;  Fl3xx / PPS / Centrik.
• Crew rostering, training and Fatigue Risk Management experience.
• Recognised flight dispatcher licence (i.e. FAA / GCAA) or training (i.e. UKOMA).
• Innovative with creative and new ideas.
• Able to enthuse and inspire.
• Able to embrace new challenges.
• Ability to react positively to change.
• Self-motivated and enthusiastic with a high quality of standards and an openness to learn.