Senior Aviation Safety Manager

Placements24; Gqeberha; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

Generous paid time off

Professional development opportunities

Hybrid work arrangement

Retirement savings plan

Employee assistance program

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Aviation Safety Manager for Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape. You will lead the Safety Management System (SMS) across operations, drive risk-based improvements, and oversee incident investigations.

You will mentor staff, liaise with regulators, deliver safety training, and promote a proactive safety culture while ensuring compliance with ICAO, EASA, and local standards. A hybrid work arrangement is offered.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Aviation Management or related field.
• Master's degree or equivalent professional qualification desirable.
• Minimum 7 years of aviation safety management experience.
• Strong knowledge of SMS (ICAO Annex 19, EASA) and regulatory standards.

Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and manage the SMS across operations.
• Conduct safety risk assessments and mitigation planning.
• Lead incident investigations and root-cause analysis.
• Promote safety culture through training and engagement.
• Monitor safety performance and ensure policy compliance.
• Liaise with regulators and represent the organization.
• Deliver safety training programs to staff.
• Analyze safety data to identify trends and improvements.
• Maintain safety documentation and records.

Skills

SMS risk assessment

Incident investigation

Leadership

Regulatory understanding

Stakeholder communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Aviation Management

Master's degree (preferred)

Tools

Safety management software

Data analysis tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent aviation services provider, is seeking an experienced Senior Aviation Safety Manager to lead safety initiatives in Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape . This role is critical for ensuring the highest levels of safety across all operations, developing and implementing robust safety management systems (SMS), and fostering a proactive safety culture. You will be responsible for risk assessment, incident investigation, and the continuous improvement of safety protocols in line with national and international aviation standards. The ideal candidate will possess strong leadership qualities, a deep understanding of aviation safety principles, and the ability to drive safety performance across the organization. This is an excellent opportunity to make a significant impact on aviation safety in the region. Join a dedicated team committed to maintaining excellence in safety and operational integrity. The position requires a strategic thinker with a passion for aviation safety and a proven ability to influence positive change.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and manage the organization's Safety Management System (SMS) in accordance with regulatory requirements.
• Conduct comprehensive safety risk assessments and develop mitigation strategies for identified hazards.
• Lead and manage incident investigations, ensuring thorough root cause analysis and timely implementation of corrective actions.
• Promote a positive safety culture through training, communication, and engagement with all levels of staff.
• Monitor and audit safety performance, identifying areas for improvement and ensuring compliance with safety policies.
• Liaise with aviation regulatory bodies and represent the organization in safety-related matters.
• Develop and deliver safety training programs to employees, ensuring awareness and understanding of safety procedures.
• Analyze safety data to identify trends and develop proactive safety initiatives.
• Maintain safety documentation and records, ensuring accuracy and accessibility.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for all aviation safety inquiries and concerns within the organization.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Aviation Management, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field.
• A Master's degree or equivalent professional qualification is highly desirable.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in aviation safety management, operations, or a related field.
• In-depth knowledge of Safety Management Systems (SMS) principles and implementation (e.g., ICAO Annex 19, EASA requirements).
• Proven experience in hazard identification, risk assessment, and incident investigation.
• Familiarity with relevant aviation regulations and standards.
• Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a dynamic environment.
• Proficiency in safety management software and data analysis tools.
• Must hold or be eligible to obtain necessary certifications recognized by aviation authorities in South Africa.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package commensurate with experience.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Generous annual leave and paid time off.
• Opportunities for professional development and advanced safety certifications.
• Hybrid work arrangement offering a balance between office and remote work.
• Contribution to a retirement savings plan.
• Employee assistance program and wellness support.
• The chance to shape safety standards in a key Eastern Cape aviation hub.