Shape the future of aviation safety in South Africa. Lead a nationally significant function responsible for ensuring the highest standards of aviation oversight, regulatory compliance, and operational excellence.

This executive opportunity is suited to an accomplished aviation leader who combines strategic vision with extensive operational expertise. Reporting at executive level, you will provide leadership across Safety Standards and Assurance, Personnel Licensing, and Aviation Medicine while ensuring compliance with national legislation and ICAO standards.

You will be responsible for developing and executing the divisional strategy, providing strategic support to executive leadership, overseeing regulatory compliance, driving operational performance, and leading multidisciplinary teams. The role requires exceptional stakeholder engagement, sound governance, financial oversight, and the ability to represent South Africa in international aviation regulatory forums.

Our client is a respected national organisation operating within the aviation sector. It plays a critical role in safeguarding aviation standards, promoting regulatory excellence, and supporting the continued growth and safety of the aviation industry. The organisation values integrity, technical excellence, collaboration, and continuous improvement while operating within a highly regulated environment.

• Develop and execute the divisional Safety Standards and Assurance strategy.

• Provide strategic advice and support to executive leadership.

• Ensure regulatory compliance with Civil Aviation legislation and ICAO requirements.

• Lead operational oversight across Safety Standards and Assurance.

• Oversee Personnel Licensing and Aviation Medicine functions.

• Manage divisional budgets and financial performance.

• Lead policy development and regulatory review initiatives.

• Represent South Africa in international aviation standards forums.

• Drive aviation safety promotion and stakeholder engagement.

• Build and lead a high-performing executive team while fostering organisational capability.

• Airline Transport Pilot Licence (ATPL) or Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL) with relevant aviation qualifications.

• A relevant postgraduate qualification will be advantageous.

• At least 10 years' senior management experience.

• At least 10 years' experience within aviation safety operations or a closely related environment.

• Extensive knowledge of aviation regulations, ICAO standards, governance, and regulatory oversight.

• Proven experience leading complex operational and strategic functions.

• Strong financial management and budgeting capability.

• Outstanding leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills.

• Safety Standards and Assurance strategy is successfully implemented.

• Regulatory compliance is consistently maintained.

• Effective oversight is achieved across all operational functions.

• Strong relationships are maintained with industry stakeholders and international regulators.

• High-performing teams deliver measurable operational outcomes.

• Governance, financial management, and organisational objectives are achieved in line with legislative requirements.