Chief Operating Officer (COO)

Job Description

Job Description

Our client s seeking a world-class aviation operator to take the helm of day-to-day execution across a dynamic 40+ aircraft fleet operating under Part 135 and Part 91. This is more than an operations role, it’s a chance to lead, build, and scale a premier private aviation platform.

As COO, you will own the performance engine of the business, driving safety, fleet utilization, service delivery, and operational excellence, while partnering directly with the CEO to accelerate growth across Jet Card, Fractional Ownership, and Aircraft Management programs.

Why This Opportunity

• Run the Operation - Take full ownership of a high-performing, premium aviation platform with the autonomy to lead, optimize, and elevate every aspect of operations.
• Build Something That Scales - Shape the systems, processes, and infrastructure that will power the next phase of growth, turning a strong operation into a market leader.
• True Seat at the Table - Partner directly with the CEO and senior leadership to drive strategy, make high-impact decisions, and influence the future of the company.
• Impact Where It Matters Most - Drive measurable improvements across safety, client experience, fleet performance, and profitability, where operational excellence directly translates into growth and brand strength.
• Operate at the Highest Level of Aviation - Lead within a business built around discerning clients, complex logistics, and a commitment to delivering a truly personal, private, and authentic experience.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead day-to-day operational execution across flight operations, maintenance coordination, scheduling/dispatch, fleet planning, and owner/client service delivery.
• Ensure safe, compliant, and efficient operations under Part 135 and Part 91 while reinforcing a strong safety-first culture in partnership with flight and safety leadership.
• Drive aircraft utilization, routing efficiency, empty leg reduction, maintenance downtime management, and overall operational reliability.
• Own operational performance metrics and support budget management, including cost per flight hour, crew efficiency, maintenance spend, and fuel strategy.
• Partner cross-functionally with sales, finance, client experience, safety, and maintenance leadership to align operational decisions with growth, margin, and service goals.
• Build and improve systems, workflows, scorecards, and accountability structures that support scale across jet card, fractional ownership, and aircraft management programs.
• Lead, coach, and develop department leaders while fostering a culture of accountability, integrity, adaptability, and continuous improvement.

QualificationsRequired

• 10+ years of aviation operations leadership experience.
• Deep experience in Part 135 operations; Part 91 exposure is also valuable.
• Track record leading complex, multi-aircraft operations; 20+ aircraft preferred.
• Strong knowledge of FAA regulations, flight operations, dispatch, and maintenance planning.
• Experience managing operational budgets, financial performance, or P&L-related decisions.
• Ability to lead in a fast-moving, service-driven environment with high client expectations.

Preferred

• Experience with jet card, fractional ownership, and/or aircraft management programs.
• Background in premium private aviation or other high-touch service models.
• Familiarity with ARGUS, Wyvern, and Safety Management Systems
• Experience implementing KPIs, scorecards, or EOS/Traction-style accountability tools.
• Strong cross-functional leadership experience spanning operations, finance, and client-facing teams.

Leadership Profile

• Operator first, strategist second — able to translate vision into disciplined execution.
• Calm, decisive, and credible in a real-time operational environment.
• Data-driven and comfortable using metrics to improve performance and accountability.
• Committed to both safety and client experience without compromising either.
• Strong communicator with the ability to influence executives, pilots, managers, and high-net-worth clients.
• Builder of systems and teams, not just a short-term problem solver.

Success in This Role

• A highly reliable operation with strong on-time performance, completion rates, and trust from owners and clients.
• Scalable operational infrastructure that supports growth across jet card, fractional ownership, and managed aircraft programs.
• Improved efficiency across utilization, downtime, sourcing, and operating cost drivers.
• A culture where safety, accountability, and service excellence are non-negotiable.