Director of Flight Operations

At Airport Staff we are looking to recruit a Director of Flight Operations for a leading Airline operating in Ireland. As the Director of Flight Operations you will be responsible for ensuring the safety, security and efficient overall operation of all Company Aircraft.

Responsibilities:

• Ensure full compliance within the Flight Operations Department with company policy, legal requirements, and applicable aviation regulations.
• Develop and maintain operational procedures to support the safe and efficient operation of all company aircraft.
• Manage Flight and Cabin Crew in line with company HR procedures, including performance oversight and professional development.
• Lead the selection, recruitment, and appointment of flight crew, including designation of Aircraft Commanders and Training Personnel, in consultation with the Head of Training.
• Produce, update, and maintain the Company’s Operations Manuals.
• Establish, monitor, and maintain line flying standards across the fleet.
• Oversee flight and route planning, ensuring safe and efficient operations.
• Supervise the maintenance of operational and training records, ensuring all crew are appropriately licensed and authorised.
• Act as primary liaison with the Irish Aviation Authority and the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport to ensure all operations remain within approved authorisations.
• Maintain engagement with aircraft manufacturers and relevant external organisations to support operational safety and efficiency.
• Review and evaluate programmes relating to fleet and equipment standardisation, as well as new aircraft acquisitions.

Essential Qualifications and Experience:

• Hold a valid flight crew licence and Aircraft type rating
• Demonstrated experience in a senior flight operations role (e.g. Chief Pilot, Fleet Captain, Training Captain, or Flight Operations Manager).
• In-depth knowledge of EASA Air Operations Regulations, IAA requirements, and international aviation standards.
• Proven experience in producing and maintaining operations manuals and ensuring compliance with regulatory oversight.
• Background in training and standards, ideally with designation as a Line Training Captain, Instructor, or Examiner.

Desirable Experience

• Previous engagement with regulatory authorities (IAA, EASA, ICAO) including audit management and compliance reporting.
• Experience in fleet or equipment standardisation programmes and new aircraft induction.
• Familiarity with Safety Management Systems (SMS) and compliance monitoring frameworks.

Personal Attributes

• Strong leadership and decision-making skills, with the ability to inspire confidence in crews and colleagues.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, capable of engaging effectively with internal and external stakeholders.
• Strategic mindset, able to balance safety, regulatory compliance, and operational efficiency.
• Integrity, professionalism, and an unwavering commitment to a safety-first culture.