National Director of Flight Services

About Us:

George J. Priester Aviation, a leader in the 135-charter industry, has been delivering exceptional aviation services. Our commitment to safety, professionalism, and customer satisfaction has earned us a reputation as a trusted partner in the skies. We are passionate about aviation and dedicated to fostering a supportive and dynamic work environment.

Position Summary:

As the Director of Flight Services, you will be responsible for leading the various Flight Services team members across the multiple GJP bases maintaining a cohesive, global Flight Services department. This strategic leadership role requires deep knowledge of aviation operations, leadership in cross-functional collaboration, and the ability to drive innovation and efficiency at scale. The Director will ensure consistent and high-quality service delivery, standardize best practices, foster a unified culture, and oversee the development of systems and processes that bring together flight services teams from different locations into a singular, high-performing unit.

Key Responsibilities:

• Strategic Leadership and Integration:
  • Lead the integration of flight service operations across multiple U.S. bases, ensuring alignment with company goals and global flight services strategies.
  • Develop and implement a roadmap to create a seamless and cohesive global flight services team, harmonizing policies, procedures, and operational standards across all bases.
  • Establish and execute a clear communication strategy to ensure alignment and collaboration between geographically dispersed teams.
  • Work as part of the GJP leadership team helping coordinate cross-departmental priorities, aligning our growth with our company, customer and employee goals and needs.
  • Partners with company presidents to standardize operational and service delivery with Owner Services and Aviation Service Managers across all accounts.
• Team Development and Culture Building:
  • Build a unified and high-performance flight services team by fostering collaboration, promoting professional development, and enhancing team engagement.
  • Create and implement training programs to support a global flight services team and ensure ongoing professional development.
  • Lead efforts to build a positive and inclusive team culture, reinforcing core values across all locations.
• Operational Excellence:
  • Standardize operating procedures and quality control measures to ensure the highest level of consistency and safety across all flight services.
  • Collaborate with other departments (flight operations, maintenance, safety, HR, etc.) to ensure efficient and effective operations and the smooth implementation of changes.
  • Monitor performance metrics, analyze trends, and drive continuous improvement in all areas of flight services.
  • Actively participating in the SMS program and process and part of the GJP safety committee.
• Innovation and Process Improvement:
  • Identify opportunities for process optimization and technological advancements to enhance flight service operations globally.
  • Champion initiatives to improve the customer experience, operational efficiency, and overall service quality.
  • Lead the implementation of and help build out new technologies, systems, and tools to enhance communication, coordination, and operational workflows.
• Stakeholder Engagement:
  • Serve as the primary point of contact between flight services teams and senior management, providing regular updates and recommendations on team performance and strategic direction.
  • Serve as the primary point of contact between flight services teams and base presidents/owner services, providing direction to flight services team members based on account management feedback.
  • Build strong relationships with key internal stakeholders (i.e. safety, maintenance, flight operations), to ensure alignment of flight services objectives with broader organizational goals.
• Budget and Resource Management:
  • Oversee the budget for flight services, ensuring cost-effective allocation of resources and that operational expenditures align with strategic goals.
  • Manage staffing and resource planning to meet the needs of a growing global flight services team.
  • Oversee the 24/7 schedule for the flight services team, ensuring 100% services coverage across all operations and accounts.
  • Delivers team performance management feedback and coaches the flight services team towards service excellence including delivery of opportunities for further education and training.

Qualifications:

• Education:
  • Bachelor’s degree in Aviation Management, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Experience:
  • 10+ years of experience in aviation operations, with at least 5 years in a leadership role overseeing flight services or related functions.
  • Proven experience in managing and integrating operations across multiple locations or teams.
  • Strong understanding of aviation regulations, industry standards, and safety protocols.
• Skills:
  • Excellent leadership and people management skills, with the ability to inspire, motivate, and manage teams remotely.
  • Exceptional communication skills, including the ability to collaborate with cross-functional teams and executives.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with a focus on process improvement and operational efficiency.
  • Proficiency in using flight operations software, data analysis tools, and other relevant technology.
• Other Requirements:
  • Individual is required to be based in either Chicago, IL or Denver, CO. 
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office programs, including Word, Excel, and Outlook.
  • Willingness to travel across the U.S. and internationally as needed.
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment with shifting priorities.
  • Strong emotional intelligence and a passion for creating a collaborative, inclusive workplace culture.

Why Join Us:

As the Director of Flight Services, you will play a critical role in developing and implementing a vision that is consistent with the company’s values and shaping the future of our global flight operations. This is a high-visibility position that works to enhance the overall customer experience while offering the opportunity to drive change, innovate, and lead a talented team of professionals in a growing global company. If you are passionate about aviation, have a strategic mindset, and excel at leading teams across multiple locations, we invite you to apply.

This is an exempt position which requires flexibility to meet the demands of business.