AOC Accountable Manager

VACANCY: AOC ACCOUNTABLE MANAGER

REPORTING TO: Co-Managing Director

LOCATION: Durban

Starlite Aviation Operations (Pty) Ltd is seeking an experienced AOC Accountable Manager to assume overall executive accountability for the operational activities and performance of its International and Domestic Air Service Licence operations.

Join Starlite Aviation, a SAF Aerogroup company, and take a leading role in a dynamic international aviation environment. Starlite Aviation delivers specialised aviation operations across helicopter, fixed-wing and remotely piloted aircraft activities.

As we continue to develop our operations, we are looking for talented and experienced professionals who want to contribute to our growth, operational excellence and uncompromising commitment to safety.


The position covers:

• Part 127 – Helicopter Operations
• Part 135 – Fixed Wing Operations
• Part 101 – Remote Pilot Aircraft Systems (RPAS)

KEY JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:

Strategic and Business Leadership

• You will provide executive leadership to the AOC organisation and create the structure, resources, systems, processes and controls required to achieve Starlite Aviation's operational and business objectives.
• Your responsibilities will include defining the strategy, objectives and goals of the business, monitoring emerging aviation industry trends, opportunities and threats, and adapting the organisation's approach where required.
• You will also play a key role in ensuring that Quality, Safety, Health and Environmental considerations are fully embedded in operational and business decision-making.

Operational Excellence and Regulatory Compliance

• Develop and implement effective systems and controls across all areas within the AOC.
• Ensure continued compliance with applicable SACAA regulatory requirements and relevant operational approvals.
• Provide operational, regulatory and strategic input into fleet planning, aircraft additions, aircraft disposals and associated business decisions.
• Ensure that the systems, competencies and behaviours required to maintain aviation approvals and accreditations remain effective.
• Drive continuous improvement and innovation initiatives to improve operational efficiency and competitiveness.
• Ensure operations are executed safely, effectively and in accordance with Company requirements.

Financial Management

• Directing financial planning, budgeting and forecasting.
• Optimising resource allocation.
• Monitoring key financial indicators and performance trends.
• Implementing corrective actions where required.
• Operating within approved financial budgets and delegated authority.
• Planning and executing operations within applicable tender budgets.

Stakeholder Management

• Liaising with customers, contractors, SACAA and other relevant agencies.
• Building and maintaining strong supplier relationships.
• Participating in supplier negotiations to meet operational requirements at operational bases.
• Maintaining effective working relationships with the Business Development Director and AMO Accountable Manager.

CRITICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Strong leadership and people management capability.
• A disciplined approach to performance standards, organisational objectives and business goals.
• Strong customer service skills.
• Excellent interpersonal skills.
• Strong administration and organisational capability.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.
• Confidence working with multiple internal and external stakeholders.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.

QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE:

• A Pilot Licence – minimum CPL.
• A Business Management Diploma or Degree.
• Safety and Quality Assurance certification.
• Approximately eight years' experience in a senior management role, including responsibility for teams, budgets, performance management and operational compliance.
• Approximately eight years' senior management-level experience within civil aviation, gained in flight operations, maintenance, safety management and/or quality management.
• A proven track record of achievement in previous senior roles.
• Strong technical and operational knowledge of Helicopter, Fixed Wing and RPAS operations.
• Sound knowledge of the regulations and requirements applicable to the operational environment.

Languages

• English: High level of proficiency required, both written and spoken.
• French: Highly advantageous.
• Other languages: An advantage.

Working Conditions:

• Travel: Regular travel to operational bases, both locally and internationally.
• Key working relationships: Business Development Director, AMO Accountable Manager.

The above position will be filled in accordance with the Recruitment and Selection Policy to achieve the Group's Objectives and Goals.

We appreciate your interest in Starlite Aviation Group. Should you not receive a response within 2 weeks, please consider your application unsuccessful.

Applicants must submit their CV by Thursday, 01 October 2026.

This summary and its contents are the sole property of Starlite Aviation Group. Any unauthorised reproduction or modification of this information and contents without the express written permission from Starlite Aviation Group is prohibited and may result in legal action.