Life at MAN - Oliver Thompson, Airfield Performance Lead

As Manchester Airport grows, its airfield operations are constantly changing and evolving – with a drive for ever greater efficiency in the way that aircraft are guided from the gate to the runway, or vice versa, to ensure flights run on time and without a hitch.

In practice, that means lots of work, reviewing plans and procedures, and working with airlines, ground handlers and air traffic control to smooth over any hiccups.

In this month’s Life at MAN we speak to Oliver Thompson, an Airport Performance Lead – he explains all of this and more, and also shares some destination inspiration if you fancy a theme park holiday!

How long have you been working at Manchester Airport?

I've been working at Manchester Airport for over two years. I recently started in my current role as Airfield Performance Lead, approximately six months ago. Before that I worked in Capacity Planning for the airport.

What does your job involve on a typical day?

The role is varied, which is what makes it so engaging. Some days I’m on the airfield keeping an eye on our operations, other days I’m working on analytics, new tech projects, or talking to our airport partners about how we can improve the ways we work together. My main focus is airfield performance - making sure our people, processes, infrastructure, and technology are all supported and equipped as well as they can be, with the ultimate aim of getting passengers to their destinations on time.

I act as an Airfield subject matter expert on tech projects, ensuring that the airfield team’s needs are considered when we’re looking to make changes to the way we use technology and how that fits into the wider picture of the airport’s operations. I support colleagues by reviewing processes, providing training, and equipping them to make confident, informed decisions. This covers projects like the industry initiative Airport Collaborative Decision Making (or A-CDM for short), flight slot approvals, night jet movements, remote holding, and developing dashboards and tech solutions that support our performance in various areas, to enable the operation to perform at its best.

What skills and training are needed for the role?

A deep understanding of the aviation industry is essential, and I firmly believe this is developed through experience across a range of roles within the sector.

This position draws on expertise in airport operations, airline operations, scheduling, industry developments, and technological advancements.

It also demands strong skills in stakeholder management, continuous improvement leadership, analytical thinking, change and project management, among others.

What do you enjoy the most about working at the airport?

There’s a saying: “Do a job you love, and you’ll never work a day in your life.” That perfectly captures how I’ve always felt about working at the airport. Aviation is truly fascinating, and being part of it - contributing to the success of a major airport like Manchester - is incredibly rewarding. There’s no better feeling than walking through the terminal and seeing families excited for their holidays, knowing that in some small way, I’ve helped make that possible. As a father, that sense of connection and purpose resonates with me deeply.

What is the most memorable thing you’ve worked on?

I’m still in the early stages of this role, but one of the most memorable projects I’m involved in is Airport Collaborative Decision Making (A-CDM). A-CDM is a major joint initiative between airport operators, airlines, ground handlers, and air traffic control aimed at improving the efficiency and predictability of airport operations. By sharing accurate and timely information, A-CDM helps reduce delays, optimise resource usage, and enhance the overall passenger experience. One of the highlights for me has been liaising with air traffic control and visiting their control tower - an absolutely breathtaking experience for anyone passionate about aviation.

What one piece of advice would you give to someone considering a career at the airport?

The airport is an incredible place to work, where you have the opportunity to truly make a difference. It’s a dynamic environment where anything can happen, and being part of that - contributing and making an impact - is immensely rewarding. I believe in always giving your best, going above and beyond, and earning the appreciation and respect that come from genuine effort and dedication.

What do you like to do when you're not at work?

Think of an "AvGeek" and apply that to rollercoasters instead, I'm one of those nerdy rollercoaster enthusiasts where I know more about rollercoasters than aircrafts! I count how many different rollercoasters I've ridden (a bit like plane spotters!), currently at 361. So this hobby takes me to a variety of places across the country and abroad! The best bit? I get to drag my family on days out! My eldest daughter is on 138 coasters at the age of 7, whether she's counting them or not…

Which destination that we fly to from Manchester do you most want to visit?

Orlando, theme park capital of the world! Every time I've been to Orlando I've flown from Manchester so the airport is sort of synonymous with that for me! You cannot beat a theme park holiday… even if it's a shorter weekend trip abroad on a cheap flight there are plenty of great destinations on offer at Manchester that I can make a rollercoaster trip out of… whether my family agree or not!