About the role
Edinburgh Airport is Scotland’s busiest airport and a leading European gateway, serving a diverse route network spanning short-haul European, domestic UK, and long-haul markets. We focus on sustainable growth, high-quality partnerships with airlines and tourism bodies, and delivering outstanding connectivity for Scotland’s economy.
We are seeking a commercially aware and analytically strong Senior Aviation Development Manager to drive collaborative initiatives that drive airline growth, route development, and long-term aviation partnerships at Edinburgh Airport. The ideal candidate will combine strategic thinking with advanced analytical capabilities to identify new route and growth opportunities, deliver compelling, data-backed airline business cases, and deliver sustainable passenger growth for Edinburgh Airport.
They will support forecasting across the organization and help shape the airport’s budget and business plan. They will help define and support the Aviation Development team strategy and identify new growth opportunities for the airport. They will be responsible for leading the team’s Aviation Development team and for delivering data and insights that help achieve the team’s objectives. A strong understanding of aviation economics, forecasting, and market intelligence is essential. This role is pivotal in shaping the airport’s future connectivity, enhancing its market position, and supporting sustainable aviation growth through evidence-based decision-making.
This role will be primarily based at Edinburgh Airport, with travel domestically and internationally as required. The successful candidate will serve as a knowledgeable and collaborative representative of Edinburgh Airport in external forums, and on airline visits, using data and insight to foster strong and collaborative relationships.
About the Recruitment Process
The recruitment process for this role will be comprised of two stages. The interviews will involve an aviation development task, alongside an interview where we will ask competency-based, values-based and technical questions. You will meet with our Head of Aviation, Chief Commercial Officer, and other key stakeholders from across the business throughout the interview process.
Depending on the volume of candidates, we may include a first stage Teams screening call as part of the process.
We are committed to supporting diverse ways of thinking and working, so if you require adjustments in the recruitment process, please let us know on your application. You can find out more about our interview process and the types of questions we ask here.
What you’ll be doing
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Conduct in-depth market analysis, traffic forecasting, and scenario modelling to identify and prioritise route development opportunities.
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Utilise analytical models to evaluate and monitor route performance, airline profitability, and market potential.
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Produce high-quality, data-rich business cases and presentations for airline partners and internal stakeholders.
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Lead on aviation business development, delivering sustainable passenger growth with both existing and potential new airline partners.
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Lead commercial negotiations for these airline partners, using data to inform decision making.
- Build, maintain and manage strong relationships with airlines, tour operators, and other stakeholders.
- Support the development of the annual Budget, Five-Year Plan, and reforecasts by providing analytical challenge and insight.
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Work cross-functionally with operations, marketing, and finance to ensure successful airline performance.