Chief Flight Operations Officer

Placements24; Vereeniging; On-site; ZAR 2,000,000 - 4,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive health insurance

Retirement fund contributions

Paid time off

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a visionary Chief Flight Operations Officer to lead the flight operations department for a regional airline based in Vereeniging, Gauteng. This executive role directs pilot training, scheduling, dispatch, and operational procedures to ensure safety and regulatory compliance.

You will shape strategic direction, mentor senior managers, and manage budgets while liaising with authorities.

Qualifications

• CPL or ATPL with substantial flight time and command experience.
• 10+ years in airline operations management; 5+ years in senior leadership roles.
• In-depth knowledge of SACAA, ICAO regulations and SMS.
• Proven experience in developing and implementing safety management systems.

Responsibilities

• Oversee all aspects of flight operations, including crew scheduling, flight planning, and dispatch.
• Develop, implement, and enforce operating policies to ensure regulatory compliance.
• Lead the flight operations team, including pilots, dispatchers, and training staff.
• Promote a robust safety culture throughout the department.
• Ensure the efficient and safe operation of the airline's fleet.
• Manage the flight operations budget.
• Liaise with regulatory authorities for ongoing compliance and certifications.
• Oversee pilot training program development.
• Contribute to overall company strategy as a senior manager.
• Respond to and manage disruptions and emergencies in Vereeniging.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic thinking

Aviation regulations knowledge

SMS development

Budget management

Negotiation

Communication skills

Education

CPL or ATPL license

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a well-established regional airline, is seeking an experienced and visionary Chief Flight Operations Officer to lead their flight operations department in Vereeniging, Gauteng. This senior executive role is responsible for the overall management and strategic direction of all flight operations, ensuring the highest standards of safety, efficiency, and regulatory compliance. The Chief Flight Operations Officer will oversee pilot training, scheduling, flight dispatch, and operational procedures, while fostering a strong safety culture. This leadership position is integral to the airline's success and reputation, operating from their headquarters in Vereeniging. We are looking for an individual with exceptional leadership qualities, extensive aviation experience, and a deep understanding of operational management and aviation law. Your strategic insights will guide the future growth and operational excellence of our client's airline.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee all aspects of flight operations, including crew scheduling, flight planning, and dispatch.
• Develop, implement, and enforce operational policies and procedures to ensure compliance with aviation regulations.
• Manage and lead the flight operations team, including pilots, dispatchers, and training staff.
• Champion and promote a robust safety culture throughout the flight operations department.
• Ensure the efficient and safe operation of the airline's fleet.
• Manage the budget for the flight operations department.
• Liaise with regulatory authorities to ensure ongoing compliance and certifications.
• Oversee the development and implementation of pilot training programs.
• Act as a key member of the senior management team, contributing to overall company strategy.
• Respond to and manage operational disruptions and emergencies effectively in Vereeniging.

Requirements

• Commercial Pilot License (CPL) or Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL) with substantial flight time and command experience.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in airline operations management, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role (e.g., Chief Pilot, Head of Operations).
• In-depth knowledge of aviation regulations (e.g., SACAA, ICAO) and operational best practices.
• Proven experience in developing and implementing safety management systems (SMS).
• Strong leadership, decision-making, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal abilities.
• Experience in budget management and financial oversight.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure and manage complex operational challenges.
• Strategic thinker with a commitment to operational excellence.
• Willingness to be based in Vereeniging, Gauteng, with occasional travel.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive executive compensation package, including a substantial base salary, performance bonuses, and comprehensive benefits. These include executive health insurance, a generous retirement fund contribution, and extensive paid time off. Opportunities for professional development and engagement with industry leaders are also provided. This is a pivotal leadership role offering significant impact and career growth within a respected aviation organization based in Vereeniging.