At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead resource planning using data to optimise workforce and training schedules.
- Company: Join British Airways, a leader in the aviation industry with a focus on innovation.
- Benefits: Enjoy staff travel perks, competitive salary, and opportunities for career growth.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team committed to inclusion and continuous improvement.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by shaping operational success through strategic planning.
- Qualifications: Strong analytical skills and experience in resource planning are essential.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 60000 £ per year.
At British Airways, delivering a seamless operation starts long before the day of travel - it begins with effective planning. Within our Operations Planning directorate, we’re responsible for building the workforce plans, rosters and training schedules that underpin everything we do. As a Resource Planning Manager, you’ll lead this work - using data and insight to design strong, forward‑looking plans that ensure we are set up for success weeks and months in advance.
Planning or Delivery – what’s the difference? Resource Planning is about building the plan - using data to forecast demand, create rosters and make sure everything is set up ahead of time. Resource Delivery is about running the plan - deploying people in real time, handling live issues and keeping the operation moving on the day. This role sits within Resource Planning and focuses on long‑term planning, modelling and optimisation to support a safe and reliable operation.
What you’ll do:
- Develop, own and continuously refine both long‑ and short‑term resource, recruitment and training plans to ensure the resilient delivery of the operation.
- Create robust, insight‑led resource plans for your business area(s), using data, forecasting tools and emerging technologies to optimise outcomes.
- Proactively identify risks, trends and opportunities through data analysis, and implement mitigation strategies to maintain operational performance.
- Leverage digital tools, automation and AI‑driven insights (where applicable) to enhance planning accuracy, efficiency and decision‑making.
- Collaborate closely with stakeholders across Operations Planning and your aligned business areas, ensuring alignment with wider operational and financial plans.
- Contribute to the overall Operations Planning strategy, bringing innovative ideas to improve processes, systems and ways of working.
- Maintain a strong understanding of financial plans, reconciling variances and ensuring resource plans align with budget and forecast expectations.
What you’ll bring to British Airways:
- Strong analytical and numerical capability, with the ability to interpret complex datasets and translate them into clear, actionable insights.
- A technology‑enabled mindset, with confidence in using digital tools, data platforms and an interest in leveraging AI/automation to improve planning outcomes.
- A problem‑solving approach, with the ability to identify root causes and continuously improve processes.
- The ability to operate effectively in a fast‑paced, evolving environment, managing ambiguity and competing priorities.
- Excellent communication skills, with the ability to present complex information in a simple, compelling way to a range of stakeholders.
Your experience:
- Able to hold an airside pass - Essential.
- Proven resource planning experience with strong analytical skills and the ability to translate complex data into clear insight – Essential.
- Experience leading people and driving high team performance, with strong influencing and communication skills - Essential.
- Confident working with planning systems, supporting testing, issue resolution and compliance with system standards – Desirable.
- Experience in training planning, reporting, budgeting or resource modelling, with strong organisational and prioritisation skills – Desirable.
- Able to work flexibly in a fast‑changing environment and build effective relationships with operational teams and third‑party suppliers - Essential.
What we offer:
We believe that all the people who work with us should feel valued for the part they play. It’s one of the reasons our rewards go far beyond a competitive salary. From the day you join us, you’ll get access to brilliant staff travel benefits including unlimited basic and premium standby tickets on British Airways flights. You’ll also receive up to 30 discounted ‘Hotline’ airfares per year for yourself, friends, and family. At British Airways you’ll have the chance to take on new challenges and move forward in a way that feels right for you. We encourage all those who work for us to consider opportunities right across our business to help you develop and progress. We never stand still, and we don’t expect our people to either.
Inclusion & Diversity:
At British Airways we all have a part to play in creating an inclusive place to work. Diverse representation among our people is really important to us and we recognise that all our colleagues are uniquely different and bring their own originality, creativity and identity to work. Inclusion and diversity is a key driver of innovation and we’re committed to creating a culture where everyone feels that they can be themselves. We’re looking for people from all backgrounds and cultures to join us and be a part of our journey to become a Better BA as we continue to connect Britain with the world and the world with Britain.
Resource Planning Manager employer: British Airways
At British Airways, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work culture that values innovation and collaboration. As a Resource Planning Manager, you'll benefit from comprehensive staff travel perks, opportunities for professional growth across various business areas, and a commitment to inclusion and diversity that fosters a supportive environment for all employees. Join us in shaping the future of air travel while enjoying a rewarding career in a globally recognised company.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Resource Planning Manager
✨Get Involved in Industry Events
Logistics and supply chain are all about networking, so hit up those trade shows and local meetups. Places like the UK's Logistics and Supply Chain conference can be goldmines for connecting with potential employers like British Airways and learning about the latest trends in the industry.
✨Leverage Online Communities
Join forums and LinkedIn groups specifically for logistics professionals. Share your insights and ask questions to get noticed. Being active in these spaces can help you establish credibility and might just lead to an opportunity at British Airways!
✨Showcase Your Skills with a Portfolio
Even if it’s a full-time gig, having a portfolio can really set you apart. Include case studies or projects that demonstrate your understanding of supply chain management, logistics software, or solving operational challenges. You’d be surprised at how much this can impress hiring managers.
✨Apply Directly Through Our Website
Don't forget the power of applying directly through our website! A lot of companies like British Airways keep job postings exclusive to their sites. This way, you can easily keep track of your applications and ensure your profile is in front of the right people.
We think you need these skills to ace Resource Planning Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Supply Chain Savvy:In your CV and cover letter, make sure to highlight your understanding of logistics and supply chain management principles. Mention any relevant courses you've taken or tools you've used, like inventory management software or data analysis platforms, to showcase your skills and keep up with best practices in the industry.
Quantify Your Achievements:When detailing your previous work experience, remember to use numbers wherever possible. Did you improve delivery times by a specific percentage? Did you help reduce costs? These kinds of quantified achievements not only catch the eye but also demonstrate your capability in the logistics sector.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to British Airways:This is your chance to really connect with the team at British Airways. In your cover letter, express why you're passionate about supply chain logistics and how your goals align with the company’s mission. A little personalisation goes a long way!
Include Relevant Certifications:If you've got any certifications related to logistics or supply chain management—like APICS or Six Sigma—make sure you flaunt them! These show that you're committed to your professional development and can set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at British Airways
✨Know Your Logistics Tools
Make sure you're familiar with key logistics software and tools like SAP or Oracle ERP. These are often used in the industry, and being able to demonstrate your knowledge or experience with them can really set you apart during your interview with British Airways.
✨Perfect Your Problem-Solving Skills
Expect to tackle scenarios that showcase your problem-solving skills. Think about past experiences where you've had to optimise supply chains or handle logistics challenges. Have a few examples ready to discuss how you made decisions that led to improvements.
✨Show Your Team Spirit
Supply chain roles heavily rely on teamwork and communication. Be prepared to discuss how you've collaborated with others in previous roles. Maybe share a time when you coordinated with a team to resolve a logistical hiccup. This can show British Airways that you're a team player!
✨Understand the Big Picture
Be ready to talk about the broader logistics and supply chain trends. Having insights into current challenges in the industry, like sustainability or lead times, can impress the interviewers at British Airways. Show them you’re not just focused on the day-to-day but also have a strategic mindset!
