Aviation Safety Manager

Placements24; Stellenbosch; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive salary package

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Performance-based bonuses

Professional development opportunities

Industry conferences

Job summary

Placements24 in Stellenbosch, Western Cape, seeks an Aviation Safety Manager to lead our SMS and safety initiatives across operations. This senior role requires deep regulatory knowledge (ICAO Annex 19, SACAA, EASA/FAA), risk management, and incident investigation expertise, with a focus on building a robust safety culture.

You will develop and implement safety policies, monitor SPIs/KRIs, conduct audits, mentor staff, liaise with authorities, and manage the safety budget.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Aviation Management, Aerospace Engineering, or related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in aviation safety management, regulatory compliance, or related operational role.
• Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Experience with safety management software and data analysis tools.
• Proven experience in conducting accident/incident investigations and root cause analysis.
• Ability to influence and engage stakeholders at all levels.
• Relevant professional safety certifications are a strong advantage.

Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and maintain the Safety Management System (SMS) in line with national and international aviation regulations.
• Establish and monitor safety performance indicators (SPIs) and key risk indicators (KRIs).
• Oversee hazard identification, risk assessment, and mitigation strategies.
• Lead accident and incident investigations including root cause analysis and corrective actions.
• Conduct regular safety audits and inspections across all operations.
• Develop and deliver safety training programs for all staff levels.
• Promote a proactive safety culture through effective communication and engagement.
• Liaise with regulatory authorities (e.g., SA-CAA) on safety matters and ensure compliance.
• Manage the safety department budget and resources.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Interpersonal skills

Analytical thinking

Problem solving

Safety software

Data analysis tools

Stakeholder engagement

Education

Bachelor's degree in Aviation Management / Aerospace Engineering

Master's degree or post-graduate qualification

Professional safety certifications

Tools

Safety management software

Data analysis tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a significant entity within the South African aviation industry, is seeking a highly qualified and experienced Aviation Safety Manager to lead their safety initiatives from their headquarters in Stellenbosch, Western Cape. This senior position is responsible for developing, implementing, and managing a comprehensive safety management system (SMS) to ensure the highest standards of safety across all operations. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of aviation safety regulations, risk management, and accident/incident investigation. This is a crucial leadership role dedicated to fostering a robust safety culture within a dynamic aviation environment in the picturesque region of Stellenbosch.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and maintain the organization's Safety Management System (SMS) in accordance with national and international aviation regulations.
• Establish and monitor safety performance indicators (SPIs) and key risk indicators (KRIs).
• Oversee hazard identification, risk assessment, and the development of mitigation strategies.
• Lead and manage accident and incident investigation processes, including root cause analysis and the implementation of corrective actions.
• Conduct regular safety audits and inspections across all operational areas.
• Develop and deliver safety training programs for all levels of staff.
• Promote a proactive safety culture throughout the organization through effective communication and engagement.
• Liaise with regulatory authorities (e.g., SA-CAA) on safety matters and ensure compliance.
• Manage the safety department budget and resources effectively.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Aviation Management, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field.
• A Master's degree or relevant post-graduate qualification is highly desirable.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in aviation safety management, regulatory compliance, or a related operational role within the aviation industry.
• Extensive knowledge of aviation safety regulations (e.g., ICAO Annex 19, EASA, FAA, SACAA), SMS principles, and risk management techniques.
• Proven experience in conducting accident/incident investigations and root cause analysis.
• Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Experience with safety management software and data analysis tools.
• Ability to influence and engage stakeholders at all levels of the organization.
• Relevant professional safety certifications are a strong advantage.

Benefits

• Our client offers an attractive executive salary package, alongside comprehensive medical aid, a generous retirement fund, and potential for performance-based bonuses.
• Significant opportunities for professional development, continuous learning, and attending industry conferences are provided.
• This role is based in the beautiful city of Stellenbosch, offering a fulfilling career in a key strategic position within the aviation safety domain.