General Manager (DSM)

Modern Aviation Inc.; Des Moines (IA); On-site; USD 110,000 - 125,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

401(k) with company match

Paid time off and holidays

Job summary

Modern Aviation Inc. seeks a General Manager to lead the FBO with responsibility for operations, safety, finance, and community relations.

You will steer service quality, pricing strategies, and standardized procedures across fuel, hangars, and facility rentals while directing a high‑performing team. The role requires strong financial acumen, strategic planning, and proven leadership within general aviation, with a focus on customer service and regulatory compliance.

Qualifications

• Five+ years of supervisory or management experience in general aviation or airport ops.
• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Aviation Management, or related field, or equivalent years of experience.
• Strong leadership, organizational, and execution skills with sound judgment.
• Proven negotiation and communication skills, both verbal and written.

Responsibilities

• Lead and develop FBO staff and oversee operations, safety, and facilities.
• Develop and manage annual operating plan and budget for the business.
• Drive hangar occupancy, fuel volume growth, and revenue through customer relationships.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic planning

Financial acumen

Customer relations

Aviation operations

Negotiation

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Business / Aviation Management or related field

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

The General Manager (GM) is responsible for the overall leadership, operational performance, and financial results of the Fixed Base Operator (FBO). This role oversees customer relations, line service operations, accounting, health, safety, environmental compliance, and facilities, while planning and coordinating the sale and delivery of general aviation services, including fuel, hangar, and office rentals.The General Manager provides day to day leadership to ensure safe, reliable, and high quality service, serves as the primary liaison to the airport community, and fosters a positive, accountable team culture that delivers exceptional service to both internal and external customers.Operations & Financial LeadershipAssist in the development and execution of the annual operating plan and budget for the businessImplement and maintain standardized service levels, pricing strategies, and operating procedures across fuel (Jet A and Avgas), hangars, office rentals, and facilitiesMonitor operating performance across business units (e.g., line service, hangar operations) and implement corrective actions as neededManage inventory, equipment, tools, and vendor relationships to support efficient operationsOversee capital expenditures, facility maintenance, and asset managementRevenue Growth & Customer StrategyManage hangar occupancy and customer mix to drive fuel volume growth and long term revenueIdentify and pursue prospective anchor hangar tenantsSupport lease renewals, extensions, amendments, and major customer agreement negotiationsEnsure consistent delivery of high quality customer service and brand standardsPeople Leadership & DevelopmentLead, coach, and develop FBO staff, including Line Service Technicians (LSTs), Customer Service Representatives (CSRs), GSE Mechanics, Base Safety Coordinator, and Facilities ManagerSupport recruiting, onboarding, and ongoing training programs to build a skilled, safety focused workforcePromote a culture of accountability, engagement, and continuous improvementEnsure staffing levels and labor productivity align with business needsSafety, Compliance & FacilitiesChampion health, safety, and environmental compliance, including adherence to local, state, and federal regulatory requirements and company standardsImplement safety practices, training programs, and incident prevention initiativesAttend regular safety committee meetingsUphold standards for IS BAH certification and growth to achieve Stage 3 registrationAirport & Community RelationsServe as the primary company representative within the airport communityAttend necessary airport meetings and maintain strong working relationships with:Airport Authority and regulatory agenciesARFF and public safety partnersTenants, customers, and community stakeholdersSupport and participate in community and airport hosted events, such as public safety days, community outreach events, and aviation education initiatives (administrative support provided)Perform additional duties as assigned by the Regional Vice President or COOMinimum of five (5) years of supervisory or management experience (general aviation or airport operations strongly preferred)Bachelor’s degree in Business, Aviation Management, or a related field – OR – equivalent years of experienceStrong leadership, organizational, and execution skillsProven business acumen with sound judgment, negotiation, and decision making capabilitiesResults driven mindset with a strong sense of ownership and accountabilityExcellent communication, interpersonal, and customer service skillsAdvanced verbal and written communication skills with proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook)Strong financial and analytical skills, including experience with budgets, forecasting, invoice tracking, and financial reportingProven project management experience, including oversight of airport or facility related projects (engineering and consulting support provided)Demonstrated ability to build relationships with regulatory agencies, government entities, tenants, and community partnersExperience coordinating or supporting community or airport eventsA valid driver’s licenseWorking conditions and physical demands for this roleWhile performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly exposed to moving mechanical parts. The employee is exposed to wet and/or humid conditions, including extreme heat and cold; high, precarious places; outside weather conditions and vibration; and chemicals including aviation fuels, oils, and lavatory fluid. The noise level in the work environment is usually loud.Note: The statements above are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to the job. They are not construed to be an exhaustive list of responsibilities, duties and skills required of personnel. Furthermore, they do not establish a contract for employment and are subject to change at the discretion of the employer.Predictive Index AssessmentPlease click on the link below to complete a behavioral assessment. This step is required.https://assessment.predictiveindex.com/bo/804D/GeneralManager_Aug2025_183246Modern Aviation’s Pay Range$110,000 - $125,000 + bonus + benefits.The Modern Aviation pay range for this job level is a general guideline only and not a guarantee of compensation or salary. Additional factors considered in extending an offer include (but are not limited to) responsibilities of the job, education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity, alignment with market data, or other law.Modern Aviation offers a comprehensive benefits package for eligible employees, including medical, dental, and vision insurance; company-paid life and disability coverage; 401(k) with company match; paid time off and holidays; and additional voluntary benefit options.Equal Employment OpportunityModern Aviation is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants and employees. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws. Reasonable accommodations may be provided to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the role.Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States for any employer. Modern Aviation is unable to sponsor or assume sponsorship of an employment visa.If you require accommodations during the interview process or have questions, please contact [e-mail].