Operations Manager in Newport, Wales

Permanent – Full time – Salary: competitive, doe- Location: Newport
About AerFin
AerFin is breathing new life into aviation. We buy, sell, lease and repair aircraft, engines, and parts to maximise the value for their owners and provide a lower-cost supply of material to our airline, lessor and MRO customers. Through our deep technical expertise and high-performance culture, we deliver confidence-inspiring quality, safety and value to our customers. Our blend of industry expertise and experience – today\'s insight and tomorrow\'s foresight – gives us a unique perspective on our industry that is trusted by over 600 customers across six continents. With regional hubs in Europe, Asia and the USA we\'re perfectly placed to keep fleets flying and get deals done. That\'s the AerFin way. That\'s the way ahead.

About The Role
As Operations Manager for the Engine Shop, you will take delegated responsibility from the COO to oversee the day-to-day running of the team, equipment, tooling, and infrastructure involved in engine disassembly and maintenance for AerFin and third-party customers. This is a hands-on leadership role, where you\'ll coach and mentor the engine shop team, ensuring full compliance with AerFin\'s Quality and Health & Safety policies. You\'ll work closely with the wider Operations team to ensure the smooth transition of materials from the workshop to the warehouse and onward to customers.

This role may involve travel, as you\'ll be liaising directly with external customers.

What You\'ll Be Doing

• Oversee daily maintenance activities and manage resource allocation to meet production schedules.
• Ensure operations comply with aviation regulations (EASA and FAA Part 145) and maintain proper certifications.
• Provide technical support and validate maintenance concepts using approved technical data and documentation.
• Interview, hire, train, and motivate maintenance staff; conduct performance reviews and foster continuous improvement.
• Collaborate with internal departments (Technical, Planning, Sales, Repairs) and external customers to resolve technical issues and support new MRO capabilities.
• Maintain accurate control and storage of essential records, including technical publications and audit documentation.
• Lead production meetings, identify critical paths, and drive problem-solving efforts.
• Champion the AerFin Production System, actively engaging the workshop team.
• Escalate any deficiencies requiring COO attention, particularly regarding finance and standards.

What We\'re Looking For

• Proven leadership in Engine MRO, including Quick Turn.
• 5+ years in production operations.
• Strong project management and planning skills.
• Solid engine knowledge – CFM56 & V2500 experience preferred.
• Familiarity with Part 145 Quality standards.
• Mechanical/Aeronautical Apprenticeship or relevant degree.
• Experience with Quantum (advantageous).
• Proficient in Microsoft Office and general IT systems.
• Excellent communicator with strong attention to detail.

What We Offer In Return

• Discretionary Bonus Scheme
• Flexible working, ability to work between home and the office
• Volunteering Leave
• Life Assurance
• Pension Scheme
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Healthcare Scheme
• 27 days of annual leave with an option to buy or sell an additional 5 days per year
• Electric Vehicle Leasing Scheme
• Social events and much more

We\'re actively reviewing applications and conducting interviews regularly. To ensure your consideration, please submit your application early. Please note, we reserve the right to close this vacancy once a suitable candidate is found, so don\'t delay in sending your CV today for immediate consideration.

AerFin is an equal opportunities employer, which cultivates opinion, listens to all views with respect, recognises people based on their merits without bias and embraces diversity.
(NB. we will not consider any CVs from agencies at this point, and will reach out to our PSL if required)