Executive Director, Flight Operations

Aotearoa New Zealand Association of Social Workers; Auckland; On-site; NZD 180,000 - 270,000; Full time

Job summary

Auckland-based senior aviation leader is sought to head Flight Operations, Ground Operations and Aviation Security for a growing international carrier. The role requires ATPL with current rating, 6,000+ flight hours (4,000 PIC), and strong regulatory acumen.

You will lead pilots and operations teams, ensure compliance, and shape operational strategy in a dynamic global network. You will interact with regulators and senior leaders, driving efficiency while maintaining safety and compliance in a

Qualifications

• ATPL with current rating required.
• Minimum 6,000 flight hours with 4,000 hours as PIC.
• Experience with CAA or equivalent regulator.
• Experience participating in regulatory audits or investigations.
• Strong leadership and people-management capability.
• Deep aviation industry knowledge and credibility.
• Solid understanding of Boeing aircraft operations.
• Excellent negotiation and stakeholder management skills.
• Commercial judgement with pragmatic, solutions-focused approach.
• Ability to operate in a demanding international environment.

Responsibilities

• Lead and develop an experienced pilot and operational workforce.
• Provide leadership across Flight Operations, Ground Operations and Aviation Security.
• Maintain strong regulatory compliance and operational discipline.
• Represent the airline with regulators and during audits or investigations.
• Apply commercial judgement to operational decisions to improve efficiency.
• Collaborate with senior leaders across NZ, Australia and international networks.
• Challenge existing practices to drive ongoing improvement.

Skills

Leadership

ATPL

Flight hours

Regulatory knowledge

Audits/Investigations

Aviation industry knowledge

Boeing aircraft knowledge

Stakeholder management

Commercial judgement

Resilience under pressure

Education

ATPL with current rating

Job description

Auckland-based senior aviation leader is sought to head Flight Operations, Ground Operations and Aviation Security for a growing international carrier. The role requires ATPL with current rating, 6,000+ flight hours (4,000 PIC), and strong regulatory acumen.

You will lead pilots and operations teams, ensure compliance, and shape operational strategy in a dynamic global network. You will interact with regulators and senior leaders, driving efficiency while maintaining safety and compliance in a