Managing Director, Aviation (Client Recruitment)

PwC Nigeria

Management & Business Development

The Company

Our client is a multidisciplinary African conglomerate delivering specialized and integrated solutions across Aviation, Construction, Oil & Gas, Trading, Procurement, Transportation, and Real Estate. With a broad presence across major African markets, the company leverages cross-sector expertise to deliver innovative solutions that drive growth and development.

Role Summary

The Managing Director of Aviation will lead the strategic direction, operational oversight, and growth of the aviation division across all functional areas. The role holder will oversee the provision of a broad spectrum of highly accredited aviation services tailored to meet the needs of private and corporate clients across Africa, including Private Jet Charters, Aerial Surveys & Surveillance, Ticketing & Reservations and General Aviation Services. The role also includes managing flight operations, maintenance, safety, compliance, and business development to support efficient, safe, and scalable aviation services.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement operational strategies for services like Private Jet Charters, Aerial Surveys, Ticketing, and General Aviation.
• Supervise aviation operations including flight scheduling, aircraft readiness, and ground handling.
• Oversee end-to-end aviation operations, including flight services, maintenance, safety, compliance, and fleet management across all operational bases.
• Ensure optimal resource utilization and service delivery across all aviation segments. Oversee recruitment, training, and management of pilots, ground crew, and administrative staff.
• Build, lead, and retain a high-performing aviation leadership team, ensuring an effective organisational structure that supports scale and efficiency.
• Champion a culture of safety and operational excellence, ensuring full adherence to international and national aviation standards and regulations.
• Drive the growth and diversification of aviation services, identifying new markets and commercial opportunities to enhance revenue and market share. Lead expansion initiatives across African markets.
• Provide oversight for aviation financial performance, including budgeting, cost control, and investment planning to ensure profitability and sustainability.
• Maintain and Build relationship with key stakeholders, including regulatory authorities, strategic partners, high-value clients, and internal executive leadership.
• Ensure full compliance with national and international aviation regulations.
• Conduct regular safety audits and implement emergency response protocols.
• Stay updated on aviation technologies and integrate systems for scheduling, maintenance, and client engagement.
Represent the aviation division in Board-level discussions, industry forums, audits, and negotiations, positioning it as a centre of operational excellence.

Required Experience and Capabilities

• A minimum of 15 years’ experience in the aviation ministry with at least 5 years in senior management.
• Degree in Aviation Management, Aeronautical Engineering, Business Administration or a related field. A Master’s degree or relevant professional qualification will be an added advantage.
• Demonstrated expertise in regulatory compliance, safety management systems, and international aviation standards (ICAO, NCAA, EASA or equivalent).
• Experience overseeing flight operations, maintenance programs, and fleet management within a commercial or charter aviation environment.
• Strong commercial acumen with a history of driving revenue growth, operational efficiency, and strategic business development in aviation.
• Solid understanding of aviation financing, budgeting, and cost optimisation, with responsibility for divisional P&L performance.
Professional credentials such as an Airline Transport Pilot Licence (ATPL), Aircraft Maintenance Engineer’s Licence, or relevant postgraduate qualifications are highly desirable.

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