Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
LANGUAGE
Timeline
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Matthew McDonald

Matthew McDonald

Brisbane,QLD

Summary

I am a dedicated and results driven aviation professional with over 13 years of experience at Virgin Australia, progressing from Ramp pit crew to Network Controller through a series of operational and leadership roles. My journey has given me a deep, end-to-end understanding of airline operations from ground handling and aircraft turnaround to real-time network management and disruption recovery.


I’ve developed a strong understanding in operational decision making, flight and crew coordination, and network flow control, with a proven ability to remain calm under pressure and deliver timely, effective solutions during off schedule operations. My relocation to Brisbane to take on a Network Controller role reflects my commitment to growth and adaptability within dynamic, high pressure environments.


I’m known for working well with others, communicating clearly, and staying one step ahead in fast changing situations. I work effectively across teams to keep operations safe, smooth, and focused on the passenger experience. I’m always looking for ways to improve, and I bring strong frontline leadership experience and a solid understanding of how airline operations work.


I am now looking to further apply my experience and skills in a position that values strategic thinking, operational excellence, and a team first mindset.

Overview

15
15
years of professional experience

Work History

Network Controller

Virgin Australia
12.2024 - Current
  • Monitor Virgin Australia's network performance and daily flight rotations to ensure optimal operation.
  • Follow up flight delay reasoning and resolve real time network issues to minimize customer disruptions.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams such a Crewing, Flight Dispatch, Engineering, National Operations Management Centre (NOMC), Airport Movement coordinators in mainline airports, and the Integrated Operations Duty manager to streamline communication protocols.
  • Using operational systems such as Sabre Movement Manager & boarding, Microsoft office/teams, NOMC portal, Flight Explorer, Metron Harmony Ground Delay Program, Aerobahn,
  • Liaise with crew controls regarding crew legality, flight duty hours, rest requirements & union agreements.
  • Seek available slot times in slot controlled airports by using Metron Harmony ground delay program, and mitigate delays through cancelling flights by using crew and passenger impact assessments.
  • Critical decision making on Aircraft 'tailswaps' (which aircraft operates a flight) to minimise disruption to services and customers by using cost impact assessments (passenger disruption, crew & fuel costs).
  • Maintain Virgin Australia's schedule and ensure all maintenance requirements are met within an 8 day window.
  • Conduct familiarisation sessions with external and internal staff to help understand the role of Network Controller within the Integrated Operations Centre.
  • Receive and pass on shift handover at the beginning and end of every shift. Handover would be a brief overview on all unserviceable aircraft in the fleet, weather, port restrictions, NOTAMS, crew issues and aircraft defects.


Airport Movement Coordinator

Virgin Australia
01.2016 - 11.2024
  • Oversee and manage the daily operational network for Virgin Australia in Melbourne, including asset allocation for aircraft parking, baggage carousels, and check-in counters are up to date to ensure optimal use and minimal disruptions.
  • Liaise with Operations Control in Brisbane, Melbourne Airport, and all contractors while maintaining a centralized effective communication point in Melbourne to carry out a safe, effective operation that aligns with company objectives with targeted outcomes.
  • Produce an overnight and next day aircraft movement tow plan to ensure safety, on-time performance, and KPIs are met, while monitoring current day movements and adjusting operational plans in real-time for off-schedule aircraft to minimize traveler impacts.
  • Collaborate with the Airport manager, Customer Experience Manager and Ramp Duty Leader on shift
  • Conduct daily and accurate delay code reporting for all delayed departures out of Melbourne.

Sales Team Member

JB Hi-Fi
01.2020 - 01.2021
  • Assist customers and understand their needs and preferences.
  • Process transactions, returns, and exchanges accurately and efficiently using point-of-sale (POS) systems.
  • Collaborate with team members to achieve sales targets and exceed store goals and offer support to other team members to deliver exceptional customer service.

Leading Hand

Virgin Australia
01.2015 - 01.2016
  • Collaborate with load control to effectively carry out loads on aircraft whilst supervising and coordinating the activities of ground crew members involved in aircraft servicing, loading, and unloading.
  • Provide guidance and training to ground crew members on handling equipment and performing tasks efficiently.
  • Maintain effective communication with other departments such as Airport Movement control, and Guest Services to ensure a smooth and safe aircraft turnaround.
  • Assist in resolving any issues or conflicts that arise during aircraft turnaround.

Airside Team Member

Virgin Australia
01.2011 - 01.2015
  • Load and unload baggage, cargo, and mail onto and off aircraft by operating baggage handling equipment such as conveyor belts, tugs, and baggage carts.
  • Ensure accurate sorting, labelling, and placement of baggage according to flight time & destination.
  • Conduct daily inspections of baggage handling equipment to ensure proper functioning.
  • Scan baggage tags and use computer systems to track luggage and ensure proper routing.
  • Follow safety protocols and guidelines for handling hazardous materials and fragile items.

Education

No Degree - Year 12 VCAL

Hoppers Crossing Secondary College
Melbourne, VIC
11-2011

Skills

  • High situation awareness
  • Fast decision making under pressure
  • Strong communication & coordination
  • Knowledge of Aviation regulations
  • Strong understanding of Aircraft types, flight operations and slot constraints
  • Network monitoring

LANGUAGE

English
Spanish (Basic)

Timeline

Network Controller

Virgin Australia
12.2024 - Current

Sales Team Member

JB Hi-Fi
01.2020 - 01.2021

Airport Movement Coordinator

Virgin Australia
01.2016 - 11.2024

Leading Hand

Virgin Australia
01.2015 - 01.2016

Airside Team Member

Virgin Australia
01.2011 - 01.2015

No Degree - Year 12 VCAL

Hoppers Crossing Secondary College
Matthew McDonald