Chief Flight Dispatcher - International Operations

Placements24; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Private medical insurance

Pension scheme

Paid annual leave

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a seasoned Chief Flight Dispatcher to run the flight operations control center in Cape Town. Lead planning, monitoring, and coordination of global flight schedules while ensuring safety, punctuality, and regulatory compliance.

The role requires strong leadership, deep meteorological understanding, and proficiency with Lido/Jeppesen, guiding teams through complex operational scenarios and emergencies.

Qualifications

• Minimum 10 years in flight dispatch or flight operations, with leadership exposure.
• Strong knowledge of global flight planning, weather analysis, and NOTAMs.
• Proven ability to lead a team and make critical decisions under pressure.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily flight dispatch center operations ensuring compliance with procedures and regulations.
• Develop and approve flight plans considering weather, fuel, performance, and airspace restrictions.
• Monitor real-time flight progress and adjust plans to ensure safety and efficiency.
• Coordinate with pilots, ATC, stations and other departments to manage irregular operations.

Skills

Leadership

Flight operations

Weather analysis

NOTAM interpretation

Global flight planning

Communication

Problem solving

Crew coordination

Education

Flight Dispatcher License

Tools

Lido

Jeppesen

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent international airline based in the vibrant city of Cape Town, Western Cape , is actively seeking a highly motivated and experienced Chief Flight Dispatcher to lead their flight operations control center. This pivotal role involves ensuring the safe, efficient, and punctual operation of all flight schedules across a global network. The Chief Flight Dispatcher will be responsible for the strategic planning, monitoring, and management of all flight dispatch activities, coordinating closely with pilots, air traffic control, and ground operations. This position demands exceptional leadership, meticulous attention to detail, and a profound understanding of meteorological conditions, airspace regulations, and flight planning software. The successful candidate will be a key figure in maintaining operational integrity and upholding the airline's commitment to passenger safety and service excellence from our Cape Town hub.

Key Responsibilities

• Overseeing the daily operations of the flight dispatch center, ensuring adherence to all operational procedures and regulatory requirements.
• Developing and approving flight plans, considering factors such as weather, fuel requirements, aircraft performance, and airspace restrictions.
• Monitoring flight progress in real-time, providing timely updates and making necessary adjustments to flight plans to ensure safety and efficiency.
• Coordinating with flight crew, air traffic control, station personnel, and other relevant departments to manage irregular operations, including diversions and cancellations.
• Managing and mentoring the team of flight dispatchers, fostering a culture of safety, professionalism, and continuous learning.
• Ensuring compliance with all national and international aviation regulations and airline policies.
• Analyzing operational data to identify trends, inefficiencies, and areas for improvement in flight planning and dispatch processes.
• Maintaining up-to-date knowledge of aviation technology, weather patterns, and regulatory changes impacting flight operations.
• Acting as the primary point of contact for operational emergencies and critical incidents.

Requirements

• A valid Flight Dispatcher License issued by a recognized aviation authority (e.g., SACAA, EASA, FAA).
• A minimum of 10 years of experience in flight dispatch or flight operations, with at least 3 years in a supervisory or leadership role.
• Demonstrated expertise in global flight planning, weather analysis, and NOTAM interpretation.
• Comprehensive knowledge of international aviation regulations, ICAO Annexes, and airline operational policies.
• Proven ability to manage complex operational scenarios and make critical decisions under pressure.
• Proficiency with flight planning software (e.g., Lido, Jeppesen) and operational communication systems.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays, as required for continuous operational coverage in Cape Town .
• A strong commitment to safety and operational excellence.

Benefits

This role offers a competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package, including private medical insurance, a pension scheme, and paid annual leave. Employees will have access to extensive training and development opportunities, including recurrent training and type-specific endorsements. You will be part of a highly respected and stable airline with a strong focus on operational safety and efficiency. The position provides significant responsibility and the opportunity to influence the strategic direction of flight operations from our Cape Town headquarters. Enjoy working in a stimulating international environment with a team of dedicated aviation professionals.