Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a large operations team and drive innovation in inflight catering services.
- Company: Join dnata, a global leader in air and travel services.
- Benefits: Enjoy private healthcare, pension scheme, free meals, and gym discounts.
- Why this job: Shape the future of catering at Heathrow and make a real impact.
- Qualifications: Degree-level education or equivalent experience in operational leadership.
- Other info: Be part of a dynamic team with opportunities for personal growth.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
dnata is one of the world’s largest air and travel services providers, offering a comprehensive range of inflight catering, onboard retail, supply chain and logistics services at all major and regional airports across the UK. As the leading Halal caterer in the UK, we provide tailored experiences to meet each customer’s unique needs and are a leader in VIP catering.
We’re looking for an experienced General Manager to lead our Operations Department and play a key role in shaping the future of our Heathrow unit. You’ll drive operational excellence, lead transformation initiatives, and champion new, smarter ways of working.
Key Responsibilities:
- Work collaboratively with the Operations Director in the development of forecasts and budget targets which support unit operational and strategic plans.
- Develop and implement operational plans, ensuring contingency plans are developed and reviewed for effectiveness.
- Ensure all site(s) and/or department(s) activities are planned and organised in a timely manner to meet scheduled targets.
- Drive the dnata Vision, Mission and Values in the business and model the behaviours and intent of the VMVs in all people leadership practices.
- Set clear and measurable objectives for direct reports at a function or department level on an annual basis.
- Lead Monthly Business Reviews, oversee regular operating meetings and ensure issues and action plans are communicated with resolutions.
- Partner with HR to set effective reward and recognition initiatives that drive a high-performance culture.
- Own and direct multiple improvement programmes and drive continuous improvements review and initiatives.
- Monitor and review site(s)/department(s) performance and individual process performance on a daily, weekly, and period basis.
- Champion change initiatives and improvements with OPS Ex.
- Lead with safety as a priority, ensuring all decisions are made with safety in mind.
- Work collaboratively with HR to ensure effective Talent Management and Succession Planning.
- Ensure compliance to the required standards set in ‘The dnata way’ and local legislations.
Required Skills & Experience:
- Degree-level education (Level 6) or equivalent operational leadership experience.
- A proven track record in leading large, complex operational teams.
- Strong background in operations, FMCG, or ideally food manufacturing.
- Exceptional ability to influence, communicate, and build trusted relationships with customers, suppliers, and key stakeholders.
- Deep understanding of industry practices and operational management systems.
- Experienced in budget ownership, forecasting, and delivering results within financial targets.
Preferred Skills:
- Food manufacturing expertise with hands-on knowledge of production and process environments.
- Proven experience in business transformation, change management, and driving continuous improvement.
What’s in it for you?
- An opportunity to be part of the Emirates global family.
- Private Healthcare through BUPA.
- Pension Scheme.
- Purchase up to 5 additional days of annual leave.
- Cash allowance or a company car.
- Free breakfast, lunch, and dinner on site.
- Free tea and coffee.
- Simply health Plan.
- Refer a Friend Scheme.
- Discounted gym membership at over 2000 gyms nationwide.
- Cycle to Work Scheme.
- Opportunity to enhance your learning through our inhouse apprenticeship programme.
If you’re invited to interview, please let us know if there are any adjustments we can make to ensure you’re cleared for take-off and able to perform at your best. We’re committed to making the recruitment journey as smooth and inclusive as possible.
Our roles attract high volumes of applications, so it may take us a little time to taxi through them all. We aim to respond to every application within 14 days. If you haven’t heard from us by then — or if you have any questions about this or other opportunities — feel free to contact a member of our Talent crew for further assistance.
We appreciate your patience while we navigate the runway!
General Manager in London employer: dnata
Contact Detail:
dnata Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land General Manager in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend events, and connect with current dnata employees on LinkedIn. Building relationships can open doors that a CV just can't.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching dnata's values and recent initiatives. Show us you’re not just a fit for the role but also for our culture. Tailor your answers to reflect how you embody our mission and vision.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Conduct mock interviews with friends or mentors. This will help you articulate your experience and demonstrate your leadership skills confidently when it’s time to shine.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after your interview! A simple thank-you email can leave a lasting impression and show us you’re genuinely interested in joining the dnata family.
We think you need these skills to ace General Manager in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Know Your Stuff: Before you start writing, make sure you understand the role and what dnata is all about. Dive into our mission, values, and the specifics of the General Manager position. This will help you tailor your application to show how you fit right in!
Be Clear and Concise: When you're putting together your application, keep it straightforward. Use clear language and get straight to the point. We want to see your experience and skills shine without wading through fluff!
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: As a General Manager, leadership is key! Highlight your past experiences where you've led teams or driven change. Share specific examples that demonstrate your ability to manage large operations and achieve results.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it makes the whole process smoother for everyone involved!
How to prepare for a job interview at dnata
✨Know Your Operations Inside Out
As a General Manager, you'll need to demonstrate a deep understanding of operational management systems. Brush up on the latest trends in FMCG and food manufacturing, and be ready to discuss how you can apply this knowledge to drive operational excellence at dnata.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
With a department of 800 under your wing, it's crucial to convey your leadership approach. Prepare examples of how you've successfully led large teams, driven performance accountability, and championed change initiatives in previous roles.
✨Be Ready for Strategic Discussions
Expect to engage in conversations about budget ownership and forecasting. Familiarise yourself with dnata's financial targets and think about how you can contribute to achieving them. Bring along ideas for operational plans that align with their vision and mission.
✨Emphasise Safety and Compliance
Safety is a top priority at dnata, so be prepared to discuss how you've prioritised safety in past roles. Share specific examples of how you've ensured compliance with industry standards and best practices, and how you plan to uphold these values in your new position.
