Area Operations Leader (Commercial Aviation Training)

TL;DR

Area Operations Leader (Commercial Aviation Training): Providing leadership and operational oversight across multiple aviation training centres in the EMEA South region with an accent on safe, efficient pilot training and regulatory compliance. Focus on driving operational excellence, managing multi-site performance, and leading local operational teams to achieve financial and quality targets.

Location: Based in Madrid; regular travel throughout the assigned region (Spain, Italy) required (approximately 25–50%).

Company

Global leader in simulation, training, and mission readiness, dedicated to improving safety in aviation and critical operations.

What you will do

• Lead operational performance across multiple training centres in the CAT South region, including Spain and Italy.
• Coach and develop local leadership teams and operational managers to build a high-performance culture.
• Ensure full compliance with regulatory, safety, and quality requirements across all sites.
• Manage operational budgets, cost control initiatives, and strive to achieve revenue and utilization targets.
• Oversee facility readiness and partner with Technical Operations to maximize simulator availability.
• Develop strategic relationships with customers and internal stakeholders to meet expectations.

Requirements

• Significant experience leading multi-site operations across different countries.
• Strong operational management background within aviation, aerospace, pilot training, or a similarly regulated environment.
• Proven success managing geographically dispersed teams and operational budgets.
• Strong stakeholder management and influencing skills.
• Ability to travel 25–50% of the time throughout the region.

Nice to have

• Experience in aviation training or simulator operations.
• Knowledge of EASA, UK CAA, or FAA regulatory frameworks.
• Degree in Business, Operations Management, Engineering, or Aviation.

Culture & Benefits

• Purpose-driven environment focused on global safety and innovation.
• Culture that encourages bold ideas and professional collaboration.
• Commitment to equal opportunity and diversity in the workplace.
• Opportunity for growth within a long-standing global organization.