Welcome to AALTO, where we're blazing a trail to an extraordinary future! We're not just rewriting the rulebook; we're defining what is possible from the skis itself by, propelling HAPS technology to stratospheric heights.

Imagine an aircraft soaring above 60,000 feet, powered by sunlight and flying for months above traditional air traffic. That's us, AALTO, world-leaders in High-Altitude Platform Station (HAPS) technology, with our 100% solar-electric, world-record-breaking Zephyr HAPS aircraft. But that's just the beginning! We're on the verge of becoming the global leader in HAPS Connectivity as a Service (CaaS), connecting diverse needs in the Mobile and Satellite Network Operator market. We connect the various demands of our customers, whether it's for rural connectivity, overlay capacity, disaster recovery, or new service provision. Plus, we're opening doors in revolutionizing Earth observation, tracking, and communications, while operating a carbon-neutral Zephyr HAPS fleet.

Join us in this exciting journey at AALTO. You won't just be part of a team; you'll be part of an eclectic, passionate group of visionaries shaping the future and pushing boundaries in the stratosphere. Ready to rewrite history with us? AALTO is not just creating an aircraft; we're shaping a future of boundless possibilities.

Job summary:

We are seeking an experienced and motivated Director of Ground Operations and Ground Operations Post Holder to serve as the right hand to the Vice President of Flight Operations. In this critical role, you will not only lead and support the Flight Operations team but also help drive the future growth and scalability of our operations. As the second-in-command to the VP, you’ll be responsible for managing daily ground operations, overseeing shift work, and fostering a high-performing, motivated team.

Key Responsibilities:

• Act as the number two to the Vice President of Flight Operations/Flight Operations Post Holder, supporting strategic decision-making and operational execution.
• Lead, manage, and develop the Flight Operations team, with a focus on strong people management, performance feedback, and team building.
• Oversee daily ground operations, ensuring compliance with civil and military regulatory frameworks.
• Manage shift operations, ensuring seamless transitions, resource allocation, and operational efficiency across various locations.
• Drive team growth and scalability, helping to build a culture of continuous improvement and professional development.
• Liaise with cross-functional teams and stakeholders to ensure consistency and high standards in all operational procedures.
• Maintain a focus on customer satisfaction, team productivity, and compliance with health, safety, and environmental regulations.
• Effectively manage department budgets, ensuring cost efficiency without compromising service and safety.
• Work closely with the Flight Safety team to investigate and resolve incidents, maintaining a safe and compliant environment.

Qualifications:

• A university degree in engineering or a related field, or equivalent industry experience.
• Demonstrated management experience in aviation, ideally in a complex, shift-based environment.
• Proven ability to lead, motivate, and manage teams, particularly in a fast-paced ever changing, operational setting.
• Experience scaling operations, with a focus on efficiency and team development.
• Strong communication and problem-solving skills, with the ability to work under pressure.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Master’s degree in a related field.
• Experience in either civil or military aviation.
• Certification in aviation safety or operations management.

If you are a dynamic leader with strong people management experience and a passion for operational excellence, this role offers a unique opportunity to shape and scale the future of our operations, and to make a meaningful impact in a growing, dynamic environment.

#LC1-LI