FBO Manager in Glasgow

FBO Manager in Glasgow

Glasgow Full-Time 43200 - 72000 £ / year (est.) No working from home possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead a dynamic team in managing FBO operations and ensuring top-notch service delivery.
  • Company: Gama Aviation is a diverse aviation company focused on excellence and innovation.
  • Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, private healthcare, free parking, and paid volunteering days.
  • Other info: This role offers the chance to shape operational strategies and drive business growth.
  • Why this job: Join a fast-paced environment with opportunities for personal growth and impactful leadership.
  • Qualifications: Experience in FBO operations, strong leadership skills, and commercial awareness are essential.

The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.

Position: FBO Manager

Location: Glasgow

Reporting to: Head of FBOs

Working Hours: Full-Time, 40 Hours per week

  • Competitive Salary + Excellent Benefits!
  • Drive strategic growth and operational excellence in a leading FBO!
  • Opportunities for personal and professional development in a fast-paced and rewarding role!
  • Shape a premium client experience while championing safety and compliance!

Overview

Gama Aviation is currently seeking a confident, commercially minded and customer-focused FBO Manager to lead our Fixed Base Operation in Glasgow.

This is a high-impact leadership position where you will oversee all aspects of FBO operations, both airside and landside, from service delivery, client experience and team performance to safety, security, budget management and business growth.

As FBO Manager, you will lead the FBO and Client Experience team to deliver safe, efficient and exceptional services to clients, crew, VIPs and visitors. You will play a key role in embedding our client-centric culture and driving continuous improvement, ensuring we maintain the highest standards of hospitality, operational excellence and regulatory compliance.

Supporting the Head of FBOs, you will be responsible for the day-to-day management of the FBO lounge, ramp and handling activities, staff coordination, supplier relationships and commercial performance. You will also contribute to accurate revenue capture, support business growth initiatives and participate in out-of-hours callout duties when required.

We are seeking an experienced aviation professional with a strong operational background and a passion for premium service. You will have a hands‑on leadership style, commercial awareness and a proven ability to build and develop high‑performing teams.

Responsibilities

  • Lead and manage all day‑to‑day FBO operations, both airside and landside, ensuring safe, compliant and efficient service delivery
  • Drive a client experience culture across the FBO, ensuring consistently high standards of hospitality, professionalism and communication
  • Act as the primary point of contact for clients, crew, VIPs, airport authorities, suppliers and third‑party service providers
  • Oversee the day‑to‑day running of the FBO lounge and ensure readiness for all aircraft movements
  • Coordinate staff rosters to ensure appropriate coverage across all operational requirements
  • Lead, motivate and develop the FBO team through effective performance management, coaching and annual appraisals
  • Manage training requirements, ensuring all training remains current and the base training matrix is maintained
  • Develop, implement and continuously improve FBO procedures, standards and strategies
  • Maintain ownership of the FBO Operations Manual and ensure compliance with the Aviation Security Programme and all applicable regulatory requirements
  • Promote a strong safety culture through the Safety Management System (SMS)
  • Ensure local risk assessments, safe systems of work and safety procedures are current, fit for purpose and reviewed regularly
  • Represent the base at safety meetings and conduct safety observations to drive continuous improvement
  • Drive aviation security compliance in line with CAA and airport standards, including training as an Aviation Ground Security Supervisor (GSS)
  • Ensure customer aircraft movements are effectively planned and coordinated
  • Oversee usage and develop a detailed understanding of Air Ops software
  • Maintain positive relationships with customers, suppliers and stakeholders, encouraging collaboration and continuous improvement
  • Manage ramp operations, ensuring all ground handling procedures are carried out safely and efficiently
  • Perform ground handling activities when required, including aircraft movements, fuelling, pushbacks, marshalling and GSE operations
  • Ensure operational efficiency through effective resource management and cost optimisation
  • Maintain full P&L ownership, including budgeting, forecasting, invoicing and expense management
  • Develop and implement strategies to grow market share, secure new business opportunities and maximise FBO revenues
  • Provide regular updates to senior management on incidents, departmental performance, budgets and operational priorities
  • Support out-of-hours operations and provide shift coverage when required

Skills, Qualifications and Experience

Essential

  • Extensive experience within FBO and/or ground handling operations
  • Proven experience managing operational teams in a fast‑paced environment
  • Strong leadership and performance management capabilities
  • Excellent commercial awareness with experience in budgeting, forecasting and P&L management
  • In‑depth knowledge of ground handling procedures, staff rostering and operational planning
  • Demonstrated ability to drive business performance and cost optimisation
  • Experience delivering exceptional, 5‑star customer service
  • Strong knowledge of national and international aviation regulations and their impact on operational requirements
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills
  • Ability to build and maintain strong relationships across operational and professional boundaries
  • Experience managing complex operational issues and high‑pressure situations
  • A proactive, hands‑on approach with the flexibility to work the hours required to support operational demands
  • Strong organisational skills with the ability to prioritise effectively
  • A highly motivated people person with excellent interpersonal skills
  • Full valid driving licence
  • Must be able to obtain and maintain a valid airside security pass

Advantageous

  • Previous experience in a similar role within the business aviation industry
  • Meticulous on safety and security compliance
  • Experience in business plan development and execution
  • Demonstrated experience in managing flight operations and general ground handling activities
  • Entrepreneurial mindset with the ability to identify and develop new business opportunities

Benefits

  • Competitive Group Pension Scheme
  • Comprehensive Life Assurance *
  • Comprehensive Income Protection *
  • Comprehensive Private Healthcare (after successful passing of probation) *
  • Free Car Parking
  • 2 Paid Volunteering Days each calendar year (subject to line manager approval)
  • Investment in Training, Qualifications and Professional Development

*(Subject to insurance underwriting)

Due to the volume of applications received, only candidates selected for interview will be contacted. If you do not hear from us within 20 working days then your application has been unsuccessful on this occasion.

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FBO Manager in Glasgow employer: Gama Aviation

Gama Aviation is an exceptional employer that fosters a dynamic and inclusive work culture, offering employees the chance to engage in meaningful projects that save lives and enhance operational efficiency. Located in Farnborough, with opportunities for travel and personal growth, the company prioritises employee development and provides a supportive environment for qualified accountants to thrive in their careers. Join us to make a significant impact while enjoying long-term progression in a fast-paced service industry.

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Contact Details:

Gama Aviation Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land FBO Manager in Glasgow

Tip Number 1

Familiarise yourself with Gama Aviation's operations and values. Understanding their commitment to safety, customer service, and operational excellence will help you align your approach during interviews and discussions.

Tip Number 2

Network with current or former employees of Gama Aviation. Engaging with them can provide valuable insights into the company culture and expectations for the FBO Manager role, which can be beneficial in your application process.

Tip Number 3

Prepare to discuss specific examples of how you've successfully managed teams and improved operational efficiency in previous roles. Highlighting your hands-on leadership style and commercial awareness will resonate well with the hiring team.

Tip Number 4

Stay updated on industry trends and regulations related to FBO operations. Demonstrating your knowledge of current best practices and compliance standards during interviews will showcase your expertise and commitment to the role.

We think you need these skills to ace FBO Manager in Glasgow

Leadership Skills
Operational Management
Budgeting and Forecasting
Commercial Awareness
Interpersonal Skills
Team Development
Ground Handling Procedures

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in FBO and ground handling operations. Emphasise your leadership skills and any commercial or budgeting expertise that aligns with the role.

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for premium service and your ability to lead high-performing teams. Mention specific examples of how you've driven operational excellence in previous roles.

Highlight Key Skills:In your application, clearly outline your strong interpersonal skills, team development capabilities, and any relevant certifications like AVSEC. This will demonstrate your fit for the role.

Proofread Your Application:Before submitting, carefully proofread your application for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail, which is crucial in the aviation industry.

How to prepare for a job interview at Gama Aviation

Showcase Your Leadership Skills

As an FBO Manager, you'll be leading a team, so it's crucial to demonstrate your leadership style during the interview. Share specific examples of how you've successfully managed teams in the past, focusing on your ability to motivate and develop staff.

Understand the Financial Aspects

Since the role involves P&L performance and budgeting, be prepared to discuss your experience with financial management. Highlight any relevant achievements in cost optimisation or revenue growth to show your commercial awareness.

Familiarise Yourself with Safety Regulations

Safety is paramount in aviation. Brush up on ICAO, IATA, and ISBAH regulations before the interview. Being able to discuss how you have enforced safety procedures in previous roles will demonstrate your commitment to maintaining high standards.

Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions

Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills and decision-making abilities. Think about past challenges you've faced in FBO operations and how you resolved them, as this will showcase your operational excellence.