Watch Manager in Manchester

Based at Manchester Airport, the role involves providing effective leadership and operational team management at Manchester Airport Rescue and Firefighting Service (ARFFS), ensuring the safe, compliant, and resilient delivery of aerodrome ARFFS in accordance with Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) / European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) requirements, Manchester Airports Group policies, procedures, byelaws, and business objectives.

You will be responsible for planning, prioritising, and supervising the deployment of personnel, appliances, equipment, and resources to maintain continuous compliance with the Manchester Airport Aerodrome Manual and regulatory requirements, while supporting and leading the response to operational incidents and training exercises. The role includes contributing to the effective day‑to‑day management of the ARFFS, supporting the Station Manager, and deputising in their absence as required. In addition, the Watch Manager holds line management responsibility for assigned personnel (Crew Managers), ensuring high standards of performance, welfare, and engagement through activities including return‑to‑work processes, occupational health referrals, colleague performance and development reviews, and the effective management of employee relations matters.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and manage ARFFS personnel, equipment, and resources to ensure compliance with aerodrome, regulatory requirements (CAA/EASA), NFCC National Operational Guidance (NOG) and organisational policies and standards.
• Command and coordinate responses to aircraft emergencies and other emergencies on the airport estate, working with multi‑agency partners to preserve life and minimise damage.
• Oversee day‑to‑day operations of the fire stations, including planning, deployment, and supervision of crews, appliances, and equipment.
• Ensure testing, auditing, and maintenance of fire service and fire protection equipment to meet statutory and compliance requirements.
• Lead, coach, and manage team performance, including recruitment, development, welfare, and employee relations processes.
• Deliver and monitor training, competence, and development programmes to maintain operational readiness and regulatory compliance.
• Contribute to the development and continuous improvement of ARFFS policies, procedures, and operational performance.
• Maintain high standards of discipline, safety, and operational effectiveness, deputising for the Station Manager when required.

What will make you successful in the role?

• Substantive experience as an Aviation Fire Crew Manager, or equivalent, for a minimum of two years; or substantive experience as a non‑aviation Watch Manager, or equivalent, for a minimum of two years.
• Level 1 Incident Command qualification is essential; Level 2 Incident Command is desirable.
• Demonstrable experience of leading crews at operational incidents.
• Ability to obtain, hold and maintain all required Airside Driving Permits.
• Ability to maintain Rescue and Firefighting Service fitness and medical standards.
• IOSH Level 2, or equivalent, is desirable.
• Award in Education and Training, or equivalent, is desirable.
• Thorough understanding of, and commitment to, MAG’s vision and values.
• Demonstrable potential to fulfil the operational command responsibilities of the role and to act up to Station Manager level when required.
• Experience of working effectively with internal and external partners.
• Strong organisational awareness, including the ability to maintain confidentiality when handling sensitive information.
• Experience of influencing, supervising and supporting others within a large, diverse organisation.

Additional Requirements:

• Must provide evidence of having achieved two IFE Level 3 Certificate papers at Diploma level, including: L3D6 Fire Operations and Incident Command; either L3D1 Fire Engineering Science or L3D4 Aviation Fire Operations. Equivalent evidence of continuing professional development or recognised qualifications, such as relevant NFPA qualifications, may also be considered.

Equal Opportunities & Reasonable Adjustments:

We’re building something brilliant at MAG: a diverse team of Journey Makers who share our values and want to make a difference. We’re on a mission to be number one in our industry, and that takes talent in all its forms. With so many exciting roles across our airports and businesses, there’s space for your unique strengths to shine. Whether this is your first role or your next big step, we want to hear from you – even if you don’t think you tick every box. What matters most is what you bring. We’re proud to be a Disability Confident employer. If you need any adjustments to support your application or interview, just let us know. We’re committed to helping you perform at your best. At MAG, every journey matters.