Aircraft Maintenance Manager Full Time

Volantes are delighted to be bringing this newly created Leadership role to the market on behalf of our long-standing, well-established fixed-wing client.

Our client is seeking a dynamic leader to join their engineering department, based at their Glasgow Head Office.

If you are not already from the area, then we are able to support you with relocation.

With this role, there is also the option of remote working 1 day per week.

Although based in Glasgow, there will be an element of travel involved when it comes to overseeing all of their UK bases.

The Director of Engineering is responsible for leading the engineering and technical operations of the company’s fleet in compliance with UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) regulations and European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) standards.

The newly appointed Director of Engineering would be reporting directly to the CTO, managing engineering teams and collaborating across departments to support the company’s strategic and operational goals.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership and Team Management

• We want you to come in & lead and manage the engineering department, overseeing operations, planning, and technical personnel.
• Develop and support staff through mentoring, training, and performance management.
• Ensure that teams are fully compliant with CAA, EASA, and airline standards in their work procedures & processes.

Regulatory Compliance

• Ensure compliance with UK CAA, EASA regulations, and relevant aviation laws.
• Serve as the primary point of contact with UK regulatory authorities during audits, inspections, and investigations.
• Monitor changes to aviation regulations and implement required changes within the department.

Aircraft Maintenance and Engineering

• We would be looking for you to develop, implement, and oversee scheduled maintenance programs, ensuring fleet reliability and safety.
• Ensure all maintenance activities comply with the client’s continuing airworthiness management organisation (CAMO) requirements, along with outsourced maintenance events.
• Coordinate with maintenance control and operational departments to manage maintenance schedules, AOG (Aircraft on Ground) situations, and ensure efficient fleet utilisation.

Safety and Quality Assurance

• Lead the management of the safety management systems (SMS), ensuring all engineering practices & procedures prioritise safety and meet the company’s quality assurance & compliance objectives.
• Conduct regular independent safety and compliance audits, ensuring that any findings are raised and promptly addressed and corrected.

Technical Innovation and Fleet Management

• Identify and implement new technologies and processes that enhance fleet performance, reduce operational costs, drive efficiency, and improve environmental sustainability.
• Oversee the integration of new aircraft into the fleet, including modifications and certification processes with the CAA and EASA requirements.
• Collaborate with aircraft manufacturers, suppliers, and MROs (Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul) to resolve technical issues, implement upgrades, and optimise aircraft performance.

Budget and Cost Control

• Manage the engineering department’s budget, ensuring cost-effective maintenance operations without compromising safety and regulatory compliance.
• Review and negotiate contracts with third-party maintenance providers to secure the best service and pricing.
• Implement strategies to reduce maintenance costs while maintaining fleet reliability and on-time performance.

Strategic Planning and Cross-Departmental Collaboration

• Participate in long-term strategic planning for the company’s technical operations, ensuring alignment with broader business goals.
• Work closely with flight operations, logistics, finance, and other departments to ensure a coordinated approach to fleet maintenance and technical operations.
• Provide technical expertise and support to other departments, particularly with flight safety and performance.

Performance Monitoring and Reporting

• Track and report key performance indicators (KPIs) such as on-time performance, maintenance costs, and aircraft reliability.
• Use data analysis to drive improvements in operational efficiency and fleet performance.

Stakeholder and Vendor Management

• Build and maintain relationships with key external stakeholders, including the CAA, EASA, aircraft manufacturers, and third-party MRO providers.
• Ensure third-party maintenance providers adhere to the company’s safety and performance standards.

Training and Experience 

• Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Aeronautical Engineering, or a related field.
• 10+ years of experience in aircraft engineering and maintenance, including significant leadership experience.
• Proven experience with UK CAA and EASA regulations and compliance requirements.
• Licensed Aircraft Engineer with a Part-66 certification or equivalent (desired).
• Experience in managing large, diverse teams and complex technical projects.
• Experience with regional aircraft types.
• Familiarity with aviation maintenance software systems (e.g., Oases, AMOS).
• Knowledge of Lean or Six Sigma methodologies for process improvement.
• Strong leadership, communication, and decision-making skills.