You can contact LEARNZ, part of CORE Education, at:
Postal Address:
PO Box 13 678,
Christchurch 8141,
New Zealand
Meet Nick Tolan
Job:
Airport Services Duty Manager
Job description:
I oversee, and provide, day to day operational management and leadership for the Airport Services Team, to ensure a high level of service and productivity. Our team is the focal point for all Terminal, Service Partners, Airlines and service issues throughout a 24/7 week so the services provided to the travelling public, customers and staff meet or exceed the specified service standards. We also have to make sure the airport complies with emergency and health and safety protocols.
Work background:
I previously worked in hospitality, travel & tourism and sales. Previous roles include Senior Sales Supervisor, leading a sales team, and Customer Services Manager.
Favourite part of job:
The sheer variety of the role and the fact that each day is different. You’ll never get bored doing this!
Least favourite part of job:
Sometimes shift work isn’t so funny, when the alarm clock goes off at 4.45 am.
What I am working on now:
The next three-year strategy for the Airport Services Team and finalising work objectives.
A quick story about a job well done:
We safely evacuated a very busy airport terminal on 23 December, in the Christmas rush, after an earthquake, kept everyone safe and comfortable, then assisted in resuming operations.
A (humorous) story about a job that went badly and what you learned:
During the terminal redevelopment the contractors had just completed the laying of the carpet in the new Air New Zealand Koru Lounge, when one of them broke a fire sprinkler head with a ladder. The sprinkler activation soaked the brand new carpet which had to be replaced. It also prompted a fire alarm evacuation of the whole terminal. Lesson: To remind contractors who have not worked in an airport before of the implications of any accidents or issues they may cause and how many people will be inconvenienced.
Qualifications:
I have a degree in modern languages (French) which has come in useful with some overseas visitors. I also have good people skills, lots of energy, an ability to multi-task abd be calm under pressure, sound decision-making skills, and leadership qualities.
Interests outside work:
Tramping, football and raising two active boys aged 13 and 11
Nick Tolan is Airport Services Duty Manager.