Director of Operations (Aviation)

TL;DR

Director of Operations (Aviation): Leading EMEA operational strategy and execution to ensure safe, compliant, and profitable growth of training centers with an accent on asset reliability and lifecycle strategy. Focus on building scalable infrastructure, managing high-value simulators, and driving regional performance across multiple countries.

Location: Gatwick, Madrid, or Schiphol. Geographical Scope: EMEA (UK, Spain, Netherlands, UAE, and KSA)

Company

hirify.global is a global leader in simulation, training, and mission readiness designed to make the world a safer place through advanced technologies.

What you will do

• Define and deliver the EMEA operations strategy aligned with business growth plans and global standards.
• Own the regional asset strategy for simulators and training devices, including acquisition, deployment, and lifecycle optimization.
• Oversee CAPEX allocation for facilities and equipment to ensure targeted and value-driven investment.
• Lead and develop a high-performing regional operations leadership team of approximately 400 people.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, regulatory, legal, and quality standards across the region.
• Manage the regional supplier strategy, contracts, and performance management.

Requirements

• 10+ years of experience leading multi-disciplinary teams in senior operations leadership.
• Background in aviation, training, engineering, or other asset-intensive environments.
• Proven track record in strategic planning and managing high-value capital assets.
• Experience leading teams across multiple countries and cultures.
• Ability to influence senior stakeholders within a global, matrixed organization.
• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Operations, Business, or a related discipline.

Nice to have

• Experience in regulated training or other safety-critical environments.
• Advanced or postgraduate qualification.

Culture & Benefits

• Purpose-driven organization focused on global safety and innovation.
• Environment that encourages bold ideas and collaborative progress.
• Strong commitment to equal opportunity, diversity, and neurodiversity.
• Professional growth opportunities within a global industry leader.