Deputy General Manager -ARFF

Purpose/Objective

Lead - ARFF is responsible for overseeing and managing daily ARFF operations, providing leadership during emergencies, ensuring compliance with aviation safety standards, and maintaining operational readiness. This role involves strategic planning, resource management, stakeholder coordination, and driving improvements to enhance emergency response capabilities at large airports.

Key Responsibilities of Role

Strategy and Budgeting: Define the overall strategy for responding to different types of aircraft emergencies, including the deployment of resources, prioritization of actions, and coordination with other emergency services. Collaboratively deciding on budget allocations for ARFF operations, in consultation with airport management and other stakeholders. This includes resource planning, equipment purchases, and training budgets. Operational Leadership & Incident Response: Manage and lead ARFF team operations during fire, aircraft emergencies, and hazardous material incidents at the airport, ensuring that the team adheres to safety protocols and is prepared for emergency situations. Coordinate with airport authorities, airlines, and external emergency services during crisis events. Ensure timely response to alarms and effective execution of firefighting, rescue, and evacuation protocols. Compliance & Safety Management: Ensure compliance with ICAO, EASA, FAA, DGCA, and other local/international safety regulations. Develop, maintain, and review emergency plans and SOPs for ARFF operations. Conduct regular drills, tabletop exercises, and full-scale emergency simulations. Emergency Response Management: Lead the response to aircraft emergencies by directing firefighting actions, managing crew deployment, and ensuring efficient coordination with other emergency response teams. Communicate effectively with all relevant parties, including air traffic control and emergency medical services, to ensure a coordinated and effective response. Develop and implement effective emergency response plans by conducting regular drills and simulations to ensure readiness in emergency situations. Resource Planning: Plan for resource allocation, including staffing and vehicle readiness, to meet operational requirements. Equipment & Maintenance Management: Conduct regular and thorough inspections of ARFF vehicles and firefighting equipment to ensure they are in optimal working condition and ready for immediate deployment. Implement maintenance schedules and address any equipment issues promptly to prevent operational disruptions. Coordinate with engineering teams to ensure all safety systems, including hydrants and sprinklers, are functional. Team Leadership and Development: Develop a comprehensive training program covering fire suppression, rescue techniques, and first aid as per ARFF manual Ensure staff certifications are up-to-date and provide continuous learning opportunities. Promote teamwork, leadership, and performance improvements within the ARFF team. Stay and keep the team updated on firefighting techniques and industry best practices Stakeholder & Community Engagement: Liaise with regulatory bodies, airport management, and community stakeholders on safety matters. Participate in industry forums and represent the airport in emergency planning committees. Lead post-incident reviews and prepare comprehensive reports for internal and external stakeholders. Risk Assessment: Conduct risk assessments for various airport operations and events, providing recommendations on potential risks and mitigation strategies to minimize the impact on ARFF operations. Provide expertise on how changes or developments in airport infrastructure and facilities may impact ARFF operations, offering recommendations for adjustments to enhance emergency response capabilities Data Analysis and Reporting: Gather and analyze data related to ARFF operations, including response times, equipment performance, and training outcomes, to identify trends and areas for improvement. Prepare and present detailed reports on ARFF activities, performance metrics, and safety audits to senior management and regulatory bodies. Key Stakeholders - Internal: Head - Aero Operations Airport Operations Team Airport Security Emergency Medical Services ARFF Crew Members Engineering & Maintenance Team Health, Safety & Environment (HSE) Team Key Stakeholders - External: Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) Local Fire Services Department Airlines Operating at the Airport Ground Handling Companies ARFF Equipment Manufacturers/Service Providers Insurance Companies Local Community Leaders

Technical Competencies

ARFF Equipment Operation and Maintenance-AAHL,Emergency Response and Preparedness-AAHL,Firefighting Techniques-AAHL,Incident Management-AAHL,Quality Assurance-AAHL,Regulatory Compliance-AAHL,Resource Allocation and Optimization-AAHL

Qualifications and Experience

Education Qualification: Bachelor's Degree in Fire Science, Emergency Management, Aviation Safety, or a related field. Certifications like National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) certifications (e.g., Fire Officer I & II, Airport Fire Fighter), Certified Airport Firefighter, International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Airport Emergency Planning (AEP) training is required. Work Experience: 13-15 years of experience in aircraft rescue and fire fighting (ARFF) operations, preferably with experience leading and managing ARFF teams in a regional airport environment.