We are seeking an exceptional Director of Aviation to lead, build, and oversee our in- house aircraft management team from the ground up. This individual will serve as the cornerstone of our aviation operations, overseeing a diverse fleet including Gulfstream GV, G550, and soon G650 jets, a Boeing 767 VIP, and Sikorsky and Leonardo helicopters. Operating primarily under Part 91 (private use) and Part 125 (767 VIP), with plans to expand into Part 135 (charter) operations, this role demands a visionary leader capable of recruiting, managing, and scaling a world-class team while ensuring safety, compliance, and operational efficiency.

Responsibilities:

• Team Building: Recruit, hire, and onboard all aviation personnel, including pilots, crew members, mechanics and maintenance technicians, safety and compliance staff, and administrative support roles.
• Operational Leadership: Develop, implement, and oversee all aviation policies and procedures including flight operations, maintenance, safety programs, and regulatory compliance across the fleet.
• Strategic Planning: Develop and execute a roadmap to transition from external management to a fully in-house operation, including potential Part 135 certification.
• Regulatory Compliance: Ensure adherence to FAA regulations (Part 91, 125, and 135 when applicable), managing certifications, manuals, and audits.
• Budget Management: Develop operational budgets, control costs, negotiate vendor contracts, and optimize resources for a fleet of high-value aircraft.
• Safety Oversight: Implement and maintain a Safety Management System (SMS) to uphold the highest safety standards.
• Stakeholder Liaison: Report directly to ownership, aligning aviation operations with business objectives and owner preferences.
• Hands-On Management: Initially act as a one-person leadership team, scaling the department as needed while retaining ultimate accountability.

Qualifications:

• Experience: Minimum 10+ years in aviation management and flight department leadership, with proven expertise in Part 91 and Part 125 operations; Part 135 experience strongly preferred.
• Leadership: Demonstrated ability to build and lead multidisciplinary teams in a high-stakes environment.
• Technical Knowledge: Deep understanding of aircraft operations (fixed-wing and rotary), maintenance, and FAA safety and regulatory frameworks.
• Expertise in financial oversight, cost efficiency, and optimizing aviation services.
• Certifications: ATP (Airline Transport Pilot) license preferred; A&P (Airframe & Powerplant) certification a plus.
• Fleet Expertise: Familiarity with Gulfstream (GV/G550/G650), Boeing 767, and helicopter (Sikorsky/Leonardo) operations.
• Skills: Exceptional organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills; ability to work independently and under pressure.
• Education: Bachelor's degree in aviation management, business, or related field (or equivalent experience).
• Availability: Willingness to travel and be on-call as needed to support 24/7 operations.

Compensation:

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience (Performance bonuses tied to team buildout and operational milestones.
• Comprehensive benefits package, including health, retirement, and relocation assistance if applicable.