Future Operating Model Officer in London

There’s nothing quite like the buzz you’ll feel when you’re playing a crucial role at the heart of one of the busiest airports in the world. With more than 1,000 arriving and departing flights on a normal day, the Airside and Airspace Operations team works with customers and suppliers to ensure the safe, efficient and effective operation of the airfield and aircraft. Every day, you’ll discover a world of fresh possibilities, when every decision taken has a real impact on the way our whole airport operates.

You’ll join a high-performing team with a wide range of skills and a shared passion to make every journey better. You’ll be part of a team that not only delivers a safe and efficient operation every day but is also at the cutting edge of innovation, crafting and delivering new technology and infrastructure. Whether your role is to improve process efficiency, monitor aircraft movements or oversee safety measures, you’ll be vital to the continuing smooth running of our airport.

The Future Operating Model Officer plays a pivotal role in supporting the development and implementation of Heathrow's future airfield operating model. This position contributes to the airport's transition toward more intelligent, sustainable, and resilient airside operations by assisting in the delivery of future-focused initiatives, technology trials, and operational readiness activities.

Working closely with internal stakeholders and external partners, the Officer helps shape how Heathrow integrates emerging capabilities—such as automation, digital platforms, advanced sustainability measures, and evolving regulatory requirements—into daily operations. This is a dynamic and evolving role, designed with flexibility in mind. As Heathrow's Future Operations programme expands, the Officer will take on broader responsibilities, contributing to innovation, continuous improvement, and the transformation of airfield operations.

Your role will involve:

• Support the design and integration of new standards, technologies, and infrastructure to shape Heathrow's future operating model.
• Map current vs. future operational states, identifying gaps, opportunities, and areas for improvement.
• Coordinate and analyse technology trials, including automation, AI, remote inspections, and digital platforms, contributing to business case development.
• Conduct horizon-scanning research to stay informed on aviation trends and support innovation in future airfield operations.
• Collaborate with internal teams and external partners, ensuring alignment and visibility across projects.
• Capture and integrate frontline feedback, helping refine operational models, standards, and training while promoting a culture of continuous improvement.

These skills are essential:

• 1–2 years' experience in airport operations, infrastructure delivery, innovation, or a technical project environment.
• General understanding of aerodrome operations, safety regulations, and infrastructure interfaces.
• Enthusiastic about future technologies and their application in a live airport environment.
• Strong communication and stakeholder coordination skills. Confident using standard office software and able to analyse and present information clearly.
• Exposure to innovation, automation, or digitalisation projects.
• Awareness of sustainability practices in airside environments.
• Familiarity with regulatory change or change management methodologies.

As an equal opportunities employer, we encourage applications from all. We believe that diverse talent makes us stronger – not least because we welcome passengers from all corners of the globe, every single day. Heathrow is an accessible place to work. With five diversity networks, we champion inclusivity and celebrate individuality.