Description
JOA #: 26-09 DATE: July 15, 2026
TITLE: Managing Director, Flight Operations GRADE: EXEMPT DIVISION/DEPARTMENT: Operations & Safety
REPORTS TO: Vice President Operations and Safety
POSITION SUMMARY:
The Managing Director, Flight Operations, is responsible for leading and coordinating industry positions on flight operations, flight training, related regulatory matters and working in close partnership with other departments within the organization. This role drives alignment and consensus among member airlines on operational priorities and strategic initiatives, while serving as a representative of the industry before the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), other government agencies and key industry organizations. The position provides leadership to advance the objectives of the Flight Operations Council, Flight Training Committee and associated working groups, fostering collaboration across stakeholders. Working in close partnership with member airlines, regulators and industry partners, the managing director supports the safe, efficient and effective conduct of flight operations, while delivering subject matter expertise and cross-functional guidance on operational, safety and training issues impacting the U.S. airline industry.
DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:
* Lead and represent A4A member flight operations interests in support of the A4A Strategic Plan before the FAA, other government agencies, industry organizations and key stakeholders.
* Provide strategic leadership and subject matter expertise on flight operations matters to advance A4A initiatives and support related tactical priorities on behalf of member airlines.
* Lead the A4A Flight Operations Council, Flight Training Committee and related work groups and task forces, including agenda development, meeting planning and coordination.
* Build strong relationships with A4A members, industry partners, governmental entities and other stakeholders to develop coalitions, achieve consensus positions and advance departmental priorities.
* Serve as a subject matter expert and provide cross-functional support for other A4A departments.
* Develop industry comments and support federal rulemaking and other advocacy efforts related to operational issues.
Requirements
QUALIFICATIONS
* Transport pilot rating with flight operations management experience.
* A minimum of ten years of experience with a major airline required, including at least two years in two or more of the following areas preferred: flight operations, flight standards, flight technical, flight training or System Operations Control (SOC) / flight dispatch.
* Working knowledge of relevant FARs, guidance materials, OpSpecs and other related regulations.
* Demonstrated ability to lead and motivate diverse teams to work effectively with airline management, elected officials and government and industry stakeholders to achieve consensus outcomes.
* Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to develop and deliver impactful messages to a variety of audiences and public speaking experience preferred.
* Proven ability to manage complex projects, meet deadlines and fulfill commitments successfully.
* Undergraduate degree required, preferably in an aviation-related field.
* Strong computer skills required, including proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
WORK ENVIRONMENT:
If approved by the department supervisor, A4A employees have the option to work from home on Fridays. All employees are expected to work in the office Monday through Thursday.
SALARY INFORMATION:
The annual salary range for this position is $200,000 to $220,000. Typically, new hires are brought into the organization at a salary between the minimum and midpoint for the role, depending on experience, qualifications and internal equity.
COMPETITIVE BENEFITS:
Choice of medical plans plus free life, dental and vision coverage. 401(k) with matching contributions, airline travel privileges, a tuition reimbursement plan and 12 weeks of fully paid parental leave.
HOW TO APPLY:
Interested applicants should send a cover letter, resume and salary requirements to [email protected], attention JOA# 26-09.
Equal Employment Opportunity
