Senior Aviation Safety Manager

Placements24; Southampton; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 72,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 is recruiting a Senior Aviation Safety Manager to lead the airline’s SMS program in Randburg, Gauteng. The role focuses on developing and enforcing safety policies, managing risk, and promoting a proactive safety culture across flight operations, maintenance and ground handling.

The candidate will oversee safety audits, incident investigations, CAPA implementation, and safety training, reporting to senior management and the board of directors.

Qualifications

• Experience leading SMS programs in aviation.
• Strong knowledge of risk management and regulatory frameworks.
• Proven incident investigation experience.

Responsibilities

• Lead the Safety Management System (SMS) in accordance with ICAO and local regs.
• Promote a proactive safety culture across all departments.
• Conduct risk assessments, audits, and investigations.
• Develop CAPAs and monitor safety performance.
• Liaise with regulatory authorities and prepare safety reports.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Stakeholder engagement

Analytical thinking

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Aviation or related

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent commercial airline, is seeking a highly experienced Senior Aviation Safety Manager to lead its safety management systems program in Randburg, Gauteng . This critical role involves developing, implementing, and overseeing all aspects of the company's safety policy and procedures, ensuring compliance with national and international aviation regulations. The successful candidate will be responsible for promoting a proactive safety culture, managing risk assessments, conducting safety audits, and investigating incidents to prevent recurrence. You will work closely with all departments, including flight operations, maintenance, and ground handling, to foster a strong safety-first mindset across the organization. This position requires exceptional leadership, a deep understanding of aviation safety principles, and a proven ability to drive significant improvements in safety performance. The ideal candidate will be passionate about aviation safety and dedicated to safeguarding passengers and crew.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and manage the organization's Safety Management System (SMS) in accordance with regulatory requirements (e.g., ICAO Annex 19).
• Establish and promote a positive safety culture throughout the organization.
• Conduct comprehensive risk assessments, hazard identification, and safety performance monitoring.
• Oversee and manage incident and accident investigations, ensuring thoroughness and timely reporting.
• Develop and implement corrective and preventive actions (CAPAs) to mitigate identified risks.
• Plan and execute internal and external safety audits and inspections.
• Develop and deliver safety training programs for all levels of personnel.
• Liaise with aviation regulatory authorities on safety-related matters.
• Prepare regular safety reports for senior management and the board of directors.
• Champion safety initiatives and continuous improvement in safety performance.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Aviation Management, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field.
• A minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in aviation safety management, preferably within an airline or aviation operations environment.
• In-depth knowledge of aviation safety principles, risk management techniques, and regulatory frameworks.
• Proven experience in developing and implementing Safety Management Systems (SMS).
• Strong understanding of incident investigation methodologies and reporting requirements.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to influence and engage stakeholders at all organizational levels.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities.
• Relevant safety certifications (e.g., SMS for Aviation Professionals) are highly desirable.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive executive salary, comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance, as well as a generous retirement plan. Significant opportunities for professional development, including advanced safety training and international conference attendance, are provided. This key leadership role is based in Randburg, Gauteng , a prime business hub. Join a company that prioritizes safety above all else and contribute to upholding the highest standards in the aviation industry.