Operations Manager

About the role

U-Fly Wanaka is seeking an experienced aviation professional to join our management team as Operations Manager. This is a senior position responsible for the day-to-day management of U-Fly's flight operations and the continued safe and compliant operation of our Part 115 and Part 135 activities. The Operations Manager will report directly to the Director and will have a key role in operational oversight, regulatory compliance, staff supervision and the continued development of the organisation. The successful applicant is expected to be nominated as an appropriate CAA Senior Person, subject to acceptance by the New Zealand Civil Aviation Authority.

Key responsibilities

• Managing the day-to-day flight operations of U-Fly
• Maintaining operational compliance with applicable CAA Rules, the company exposition and operational procedures
• Overseeing Part 115 and Part 135 operations
• Providing operational leadership and supervision to pilots and flight instructors
• Monitoring flight operations, crew standards, flight and duty requirements and operational risks
• Ensuring company procedures and operational documentation remain current and effective
• Working closely with the Director, Safety Manager, Training Manager and other senior staff
• Supporting internal audits, corrective actions and continuous improvement
• Liaising with the Civil Aviation Authority where required
• Supporting occurrence management and operational follow-up

About you

• A current New Zealand Category A or Category B Flight Instructor Rating
• Strong knowledge of New Zealand Civil Aviation Rules and general aviation operations
• At least three years of aviation management or operational leadership experience
• Experience supervising pilots, instructors or aviation operational staff
• Sound decision-making and communication skills
• A strong commitment to aviation safety, compliance and professional standards
• The ability to work effectively within a busy and growing aviation organisation
• Previous experience as an Operations Manager, Chief Pilot, Training Manager, CAA Senior Person or similar aviation management position would be highly regarded
• Previous experience working for, or closely with, the New Zealand Civil Aviation Authority would be an advantage

About us

U-Fly is a well-established aviation operation based at Wanaka Airport in Central Otago. We currently operate a fleet of seven operational aircraft, with further fleet growth planned over the coming years. Our activities include Part 115 adventure aviation operations, Part 135 air operations, flight training, and training of domestic and international aviation students.

Benefits

• A senior management position within an established aviation business
• Significant involvement in the future development of the operation
• A varied role covering commercial operations, adventure aviation and flight training
• Flying opportunities where appropriate
• A Wanaka-based aviation career and lifestyle
• Competitive remuneration based on qualifications and experience