GSE Manager

About dnata

dnata is one of the world's largest air services providers, delivering ground handling, cargo, travel and flight catering services across more than 30 countries. At Schiphol Airport, our Passenger Services operation plays a critical role in delivering safe, efficient and customer-focused services to some of the world's leading airlines.

Job Purpose

This role is responsible for the availability, reliability and cost-effective operation of Ground Support Equipment (GSE) at dnata's Amsterdam (AMS) station, supporting the strategy of dnata's global ground and technical services function.

The GSE Manager is dnata's principal owner of the GSE leasing and maintenance supplier relationship (currently TCR), driving contract performance, fleet availability, cost control and safety compliance.

Key Responsibilities

• Own the commercial and operational relationship with outsourced GSE leasing and maintenance providers, ensuring service delivery, performance, and contract compliance.

• Manage GSE contracts, monitor SLAs, validate costs and invoices, and lead supplier performance reviews.

• Define and optimize fleet requirements, replacement strategies, and sustainability initiatives in line with operational demand and growth plans.

• Ensure fleet availability, reliability, and contingency planning to support uninterrupted airport operations.

• Drive supplier accountability and continuous improvement through performance, cost, safety, and utilization analysis.

• Lead compliance with safety, quality, regulatory, and environmental standards, including audits and risk management activities.

• Manage GSE budgets, total cost of ownership, damage-reduction initiatives, and cost optimization programs.

• Deliver efficiency and business improvement projects that enhance operational performance and support new business opportunities.

• Lead, develop, and motivate the GSE team, ensuring capability, certification, succession planning, and a high-performance culture.

• Foster strong stakeholder relationships across operational, commercial, supplier, and airport partners while championing dnata's vision, values, and safety-first culture.

• Maintain financial accountability for the AMS GSE lease and maintenance budget, including budget planning, cost control, financial performance monitoring, and validation of third-party supplier invoicing.

Requirements

Experience

• 8-10 years' experience in GSE fleet management, ground handling, or supplier/contract management, including 4+ years managing outsourced providers or complex commercial contracts.

• Strong expertise in GSE fleet systems, telematics, budgeting, cost control, and contract management.

• Knowledge of ground handling safety standards and relevant Dutch/EU health & safety regulations.

Education

• Engineering degree (Mechanical, Electrical, Industrial, Automotive) or equivalent technical apprenticeship with relevant GSE experience.

Skills & Competencies

• Advanced leadership, communication, negotiation, and vendor management skills.

• Commercially minded, agile, and able to operate effectively in evolving and ambiguous environments.

• Strong stakeholder management skills with the ability to build relationships across customers, suppliers, and operational partners.

• Proven ability to manage diverse teams and external partners.

What we offer:

• A challenging management position within an international and dynamic airport environment.

• Plenty of room for initiative and process improvement.

• A role with a direct impact on the organization's performance.

• Collaboration with a wide range of operational, commercial, and financial stakeholders.

• Opportunities for personal and professional development.