Head of Planning and Performance

Looking for a challenge in one of the world’s largest airfreight logistics organisations?

At IAG Cargo, we are in the business of moving things. From antibiotics to rhinoceros, gold bullion to avocados, and everything in between. Whatever people need, wherever they are. In an era of digital screens and closed borders, we open the skies and fly the world to bring people the things they really need.

We are the logistics and cargo brand of the International Airlines Group (Aer Lingus, British Airways, Iberia, Level, and Vueling). At IAG Cargo, we believe in keeping the world’s economies turning, and do everything with determined attitudes, curious minds, collaborative actions, and heartfelt pride. Join us at our globally recognized logistics business, where we are building a great place to work for customers and colleagues alike.

About the role

Define and develop the strategy for worldwide operations. Lead the strategic and tactical planning of resources, manpower, and people support to deliver the operations business plan and enhance operational performance. Ensure the right people are in the right place at the right time to meet customer needs while optimizing asset utilization.

What you’ll do

• Collaborate with the Chief Operations Officer to deliver the Worldwide Operations business plan, focusing on strategic and tactical planning, resourcing, and optimization.
• Support operations leadership in managing performance standards through analysis of performance metrics, processes, and practices to identify trends and areas for improvement.
• Work with internal and external stakeholders to ensure enablers are in place for operational success.
• Identify and mitigate people and industrial-related risks.
• Lead the Operational Resource and Planning team to manage short-term tactical resourcing across operational areas.
• Ensure manpower plans align with operational demand.
• Monitor and improve operational performance through centralized performance and people support functions, ensuring timely and accurate people-related data.
• Provide financial planning input by tracking resource costs and informing planning assumptions.
• Manage operational capability and customer demand with Revenue Management, providing daily workload forecasts.
• Ensure accurate, timely, and relevant data and insights are delivered to drive continuous operational improvement.
• Prepare and present performance reports to the Cargo Executive Team through weekly and monthly packs.
• Oversee capacity planning, modeling, and asset management.
• Lead performance improvement projects, including managing the implementation of new systems, such as a time and attendance platform.
• Ensure compliance with Quality Management Systems (QMS) to maintain standards and continuous improvement across operations.
• Leverage operational research techniques to optimize resource allocation, forecast demand, and develop data-driven decision-making frameworks.

Core Competencies

• Strategic leadership and vision.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to drive continuous improvement and operational excellence.
• Commercial and financial acumen.
• Effective stakeholder management and communication.
• Adaptability in dynamic and fast-paced environments.
• Results-oriented mindset with a focus on measurable outcomes.
• Ability to inspire, motivate, and develop high-performing teams.

Key Differentiators

• Global scope of operations with cross-functional leadership across regions.
• Integration with revenue management and financial planning.
• Emphasis on data-driven decision-making and advanced analytics.
• Ability to balance short-term tactical needs with long-term strategic goals.
• Experience in managing resource allocation in unionized environments.
• Track record in implementing large-scale systems and performance improvement initiatives.

Data Analysis Expectations

• Proficiency in analyzing large datasets to identify trends and performance gaps.
• Expertise in data visualization tools (e.g., Power BI, Tableau) for performance dashboards.
• Strong statistical analysis skills (e.g., regression analysis, predictive modeling).
• Familiarity with database querying tools (e.g., SQL).
• Understanding of Python or R for advanced data analysis (desirable).
• Ability to develop and present data-driven insights to senior stakeholders.

It\’s all about you

What you’ll bring to IAG Cargo:

Skills

• High level of self-organization, motivation, and independence.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Strong leadership, influencing, and negotiation abilities across all levels.
• Ability to build and nurture effective relationships.
• Strategic thinking and planning capabilities.
• Strong commercial and financial acumen.
• Excellent analytical and decision-making skills.
• Proficiency in data visualization tools (e.g., Power BI, Tableau).
• Familiarity with statistical analysis tools and techniques.

Qualifications

• Qualification in manufacturing systems/logistics or relevant experience

Experience

• Experience working in fast-paced, dynamic environments with evolving technologies and practices.
• Proven experience in analytics, performance tracking, and reporting.
• Experience in manufacturing environments (desirable).
• Understanding of World Class Manufacturing principles.
• Experience applying Lean Six Sigma methodologies.
• Operational excellence background.
• Experience managing in unionized environments.
• Proficiency in managing individuals in line with company policies and procedures.
• Experience with Quality Management Systems (QMS) implementation and maintenance.
• Experience in operational research methodologies (e.g., simulation modeling, linear programming).
• Familiarity with analytical systems, including Power BI, Tableau, SQL, and Python.

This role offers an exciting opportunity to shape operational strategy, drive efficiency, and lead a high-performing team in a global organization.

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