Director of Flight Operations - Charter Cargo Airline

Our client is a leading African cargo airline operating scheduled and charter services across Africa, the Middle East and Asia. As the organisation continues to expand its network and enhance its operating model, it is investing in senior leadership capability to support disciplined growth, operational reliability and strengthened commercial performance.

They are seeking a Director of Flight Operations to ensure safe, compliant and efficient operations across a complex, multi-regional network. Reporting to the Chief Operating Officer and based in Nairobi, the role will lead and govern the airline’s flight operations environment, driving operational discipline, regulatory adherence and continuous improvement.

🔹 Key Responsibilities

Flight Operations Leadership & Governance

• Lead flight operations through accountable heads across crewing, training and operations
• Establish clear governance frameworks ensuring disciplined operational execution across all functions
• Drive accountability, performance standards and leadership alignment across the operations structure

Regulatory Compliance & Safety Oversight

• Ensure full compliance with Kenya Civil Aviation Authority regulations, AOC conditions and approved manuals
• Oversee audit readiness, regulatory inspections and corrective action implementation
• Promote a strong safety culture aligned with international aviation standards

Crew Management & Training Oversight

• Ensure crew readiness, legality, licensing, medicals and recency requirements are consistently met
• Oversee training programmes, type-rating coverage and instructor standards
• Maintain robust workforce planning aligned with network and fleet requirements

Operational Control & Performance Management

• Strengthen Integrated Operations Centre (IOC) governance and escalation protocols
• Maintain operational discipline across on-time performance, schedule integrity and reporting standards
• Drive performance improvements through data-led decision-making and operational reviews

Ground Operations & Cross-Functional Coordination

• Oversee ground operations performance including turnaround efficiency and load control discipline
• Ensure effective coordination between flight operations, ground handling and network planning
• Support continuous improvement initiatives across operational processes and service delivery

🔹 Qualifications & Experience

• Valid Airline Transport Pilot Licence (ATPL) is mandatory
• Minimum 10–15 years’ experience in airline operations, including senior leadership roles
• Strong background in flight operations, crew management, training oversight and compliance
• Proven leadership experience within a regulated airline environment
• In-depth understanding of operational control, safety governance and performance management systems
• Experience managing multi-functional teams across flight and ground operations
• Prior cargo airline experience preferred; strong passenger airline candidates also considered
• Demonstrated ability to lead in complex, high-accountability operational environments
• Strong stakeholder management and regulatory engagement capability across aviation authorities