Senior Aviation Operations Manager

Placements24; Bloemfontein; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement fund

Travel benefits

Professional development

Performance bonuses

Job summary

Placements24 in Bloemfontein, a fast-growing regional airline, seeks a Senior Aviation Operations Manager to oversee flight operations, scheduling, crew management, and regulatory compliance. The role blends on-site leadership with remote strategic planning to drive efficiency and safety.

You'll lead dispatch, control center operations, cost controls, and SOP development, ensuring adherence to SACAA/ICAO standards and guiding a high-performing team.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required or equivalent in Aviation Management, Business Administration, or related field.
• Minimum 8 years of experience in aviation operations management, preferably in an airline.
• ATPL or equivalent experience is advantageous.
• Strong knowledge of flight operations, crew scheduling, dispatch and aviation regulations.
• Proven leadership and team management abilities with excellent communication.

Responsibilities

• Develop and manage the airline's flight schedule and optimize aircraft/crew utilization.
• Oversee dispatch and operational control center daily operations.
• Manage crew resource planning including rostering and duty time limits.
• Ensure compliance with SACAA, ICAO and other regulations.
• Monitor operations for safety, efficiency and punctuality and implement corrective actions.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Decision making

Analytical thinking

Problem solving

Education

Bachelor's degree in Aviation Management

Tools

Flight operations software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a fast-growing regional airline, is seeking a seasoned Senior Aviation Operations Manager to oversee and optimize flight operations in Bloemfontein, Free State . This critical leadership role involves managing all aspects of flight scheduling, crew management, operational control, and ensuring compliance with aviation regulations. You will be responsible for enhancing operational efficiency, maintaining the highest safety standards, and contributing to the airline's strategic growth. The role utilizes a hybrid work model, blending on-site operational oversight with remote strategic planning and administrative duties, promoting a flexible and effective work environment. This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced aviation professional to make a significant impact.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and manage the airline's flight schedule, ensuring optimal utilization of aircraft and crew resources.
• Oversee the daily operations of the flight dispatch and operational control center.
• Manage crew resource planning, including scheduling, rostering, and duty time limitations.
• Ensure strict adherence to all national and international aviation regulations (e.g., SACAA, ICAO).
• Monitor flight operations for safety, efficiency, and punctuality, implementing corrective actions as needed.
• Liaise with maintenance, ground handling, and other departments to ensure seamless flight operations.
• Develop and implement standard operating procedures (SOPs) for flight operations.
• Manage operational budgets and identify cost-saving opportunities.
• Act as a key point of contact for operational emergencies and disruptions.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Aviation Management, Business Administration, or a related field.
• A minimum of 8 years of experience in aviation operations management, preferably within an airline environment.
• Possession of an Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL) or equivalent operational experience is advantageous.
• In-depth knowledge of flight operations, crew scheduling, dispatch, and aviation regulations.
• Proven leadership and team management skills, with the ability to motivate and guide staff.
• Strong analytical, decision-making, and problem-solving capabilities.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Proficiency in flight operations software and systems.
• Experience in managing operational budgets and performance metrics.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary package commensurate with experience.
• Comprehensive health and wellness benefits, including medical aid and life insurance.
• Retirement fund contribution.
• Generous travel benefits and flight privileges.
• Opportunities for professional development and advanced training.
• Performance-based bonuses.
• A dynamic and challenging work environment.