Head of Flight Operations

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Lead the Future of Flight Operations at Air Chathams

Are you an aviation professional looking for your next challenge? Do you want to shape the future of New Zealand aviation while leading a dynamic team? Air Chathams is searching for a driven and strategic Head of Flight Operations to oversee our flight operations, ensure regulatory compliance, and contribute to the continued success of New Zealand's largest privately owned airline.

About the Role

As Head of Flight Operations, you will play a pivotal role in Air Chathams' executive leadership team, reporting directly to the Chief Executive Officer. You will hold the CAA Senior Person responsibility for flight operations, ensuring compliance, safety, and operational excellence while leading strategic initiatives that drive the airline forward.

This is a unique opportunity to make a lasting impact on Air Chathams' growth, fleet expansion, and crew development, all while fostering a strong safety culture. If you are passionate about aviation and leadership, this is the role for you.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead all aspects of flight operations to ensure regulatory compliance with New Zealand Civil Aviation Rules and our airline exposition.
• Shape and execute strategic fleet renewal, charter expansion, and new route development plans.
• Oversee crew recruitment, training, and professional development, ensuring Air Chathams continues to cultivate top-tier talent.
• Collaborate closely with the Executive Leadership Team to align operational performance with business objectives.
• Maintain and enhance Safety Management Systems (SMS) and operational procedures to uphold the highest safety standards.
• Effectively manage and communicate business needs to department heads, including Training & Standards, Operations Control, Fleet Management, and Cabin Crew Management.
• Ensure the airline is adequately resourced for current and future growth, optimizing flight crew, administration, and operational staff.

What We're Looking For

• A CAA Senior Person with extensive experience in aviation operations and regulatory compliance.
• Strong expertise in airline operations manuals, training, and safety management systems.
• Demonstrated leadership experience within a commercial airline environment.
• Strategic thinker with a commercial mindset, strong decision-making skills, and the ability to drive innovation.
• High-level competency in operational planning, crew scheduling, and resource management.
• Exceptional communication and leadership skills, with the ability to engage and influence at all levels.

Qualifications & Experience

• Air Transport Pilot License (ATPL)
• Bachelor's degree in aviation or a related field
• Minimum 5000 hours total flight time in Part 121/125 aircraft
• Minimum 2000 hours Pilot-in-Command in Part 121/125 aircraft
• Previous aviation operational experience in a Part 121 or Part 125 airline
• Sufficient experience to meet Civil Aviation Rule Part 119 Appendix A requirements for Part 121 operations
• Formal training in Safety Management Systems (SMS)

Why Join Air Chathams?

• Executive Leadership Role – report directly to the CEO and influence the airline's future.
• Shape the Next Generation – play a key role in mentoring and developing New Zealand's future airline pilots and cabin crew.
• Growth & Innovation – lead strategic initiatives that will shape the airline's future expansion.
• Southern Cross Healthcare Plan – ensuring your well-being is taken care of.
• Flexible Work Arrangements – supporting a healthy work-life balance.
• Family-Owned Airline with a Strong Culture – be part of a close-knit team with a strong sense of community.
• Staff Travel Benefits – enjoy travel perks with New Zealand's leading regional airline.
• Paid Volunteer Day – give back to the community through an organization of your choice.

About Air Chathams

Proudly family-owned and operated since 1984, Air Chathams was founded by Craig Emeny to serve the unique needs of the Chatham Islands. Today, we operate scheduled and charter services across New Zealand, Australia, and the South Pacific, connecting communities with reliability, safety, and exceptional service. As we continue to grow, we are looking for passionate leaders to help drive the next phase of our journey.

Ready to Take Off?

If you're an aviation leader ready to make a real impact, we want to hear from you. Join Air Chathams and be part of an airline that values safety, teamwork, and innovation while delivering exceptional service to communities across New Zealand and beyond.

Apply now and be part of the Air Chathams story