Senior Aviation Operations Manager (Remote)

Placements24; Midrand; Hybrid; ZAR 1,400,000 - 2,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Fully remote

Flexible hours

Health insurance (comprehensive)

Paid time off

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Aviation Operations Manager to lead critical operational functions within its expanding aviation division. This remote-first role focuses on optimizing flight planning, crew scheduling, and ground operations to ensure safety, efficiency, and regulatory compliance.

The ideal candidate has 10+ years in aviation operations with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role, experience in SMS and risk management, and proven ability to lead dispersed teams across

Qualifications

• Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in aviation operations management, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role.
• In-depth knowledge of flight planning software, air traffic control procedures, and regulatory requirements (EASA, FAA, SACAA).
• Proven experience in developing and implementing Safety Management Systems (SMS) and risk management strategies.
• Demonstrated ability to lead and manage remote teams effectively, utilizing modern communication and collaboration tools.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills, with a keen eye for detail.

Responsibilities

• Oversee and optimize daily aviation operations, including flight scheduling, dispatch, and resource allocation.
• Develop and implement strategies to enhance operational efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and safety compliance across all flight activities.
• Manage and mentor a geographically dispersed team of aviation operations specialists, fostering a collaborative and high-performance culture.
• Ensure adherence to all national and international aviation regulations, including those pertaining to safety management systems (SMS).
• Collaborate with stakeholders across different departments, including flight crews, maintenance, and commercial teams, to ensure seamless operations.
• Analyze operational data to identify trends, implement improvements, and report on KPIs to senior management.

Skills

Aviation operations management

Remote team leadership

Flight planning software

Regulatory knowledge (EASA/FAA/SACAA)

SMS & risk management

Analytical mindset

Decision making

Education

Bachelor's degree in Aviation Management

Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering

Bachelor's degree in Business Administration

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a highly experienced and dynamic Senior Aviation Operations Manager to lead critical operational functions within their expanding aviation division. This is a fully remote position, offering the flexibility to work from anywhere while contributing significantly to our global aviation strategy. You will be instrumental in optimizing flight planning, crew scheduling, and ground operations, ensuring the highest standards of safety, efficiency, and regulatory compliance. This role demands a proactive leader with a proven track record in managing complex aviation logistics and a passion for driving operational excellence in a remote-first environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee and optimize daily aviation operations, including flight scheduling, dispatch, and resource allocation.
• Develop and implement strategies to enhance operational efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and safety compliance across all flight activities.
• Manage and mentor a geographically dispersed team of aviation operations specialists, fostering a collaborative and high-performance culture.
• Ensure adherence to all national and international aviation regulations, including those pertaining to safety management systems (SMS).
• Collaborate with stakeholders across different departments, including flight crews, maintenance, and commercial teams, to ensure seamless operations.
• Analyze operational data to identify trends, implement improvements, and report on key performance indicators (KPIs) to senior management.

Requirements

• Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in aviation operations management, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role.
• In-depth knowledge of flight planning software , air traffic control procedures, and regulatory requirements (e.g., EASA, FAA, SACAA).
• Proven experience in developing and implementing Safety Management Systems (SMS) and risk management strategies.
• Demonstrated ability to lead and manage remote teams effectively, utilizing modern communication and collaboration tools.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills, with a keen eye for detail.
• Bachelor's degree in Aviation Management, Aerospace Engineering, Business Administration, or a related field.

Benefits

• Highly competitive annual salary package and performance bonuses.
• Opportunity to work fully remotely with flexible working hours.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans.
• Generous paid time off and annual leave allowance.
• Professional development opportunities, including ongoing training and certifications.