Head of Cabin Services

Ascend Airways is a UK AOC holder operating a fleet of Boeing 737 aircraft (NG and MAX) in the ACMI market, opening its first operational base at London Gatwick in early 2024. The company is part of Avia Solutions Group, the world’s largest ACMI provider, operating a fleet of 221 aircraft on 6 continents. The group also provides a range of aviation services: MRO, pilot and crew training, ground handling and a variety of associated aviation services, supported by 14,000 aviation professionals.

As Head of Cabin Services, you will lead crew performance and development, managing day‑to‑day operations at our London Gatwick base. This key role in the Flight Operations Department requires you to hit departmental KPIs while maintaining employee engagement. You will need to be dynamic and proactive, ensuring smooth operations by managing cabin crew and providing regular travel, including flying duties to support the ACMI business model.

Responsibilities:

• Conduct regular briefings and debriefings with the crew to discuss and manage assessments, performance management, safety procedures and service standards.
• Own and continuously develop all Cabin Services documents, manuals, policies and procedures.
• Ensure that all CC adhere to policy, safety regulations and service standards at all times.
• Identify trends within the CC team, implement initiatives to address performance and skill gaps without compromising quality.
• Write and deliver CC and SCC training, including onboarding and coaching.
• Maintain client, supplier and service provider relationships through regular liaison and meetings.
• Fly alongside the CC team to conduct safety briefings, cabin crew audits, risk assessments and compliance checks.
• Gain insight into crew challenges, building relationships and driving engagement.
• Work with inflight services and the commercial team to ensure all service standards are met and feedback is sent to relevant departments.
• Brief all CC on service requirements and flight briefs.
• Participate in recruitment and selection of new CC members, working closely with HR.
• Oversee the Cabin Crew Manager and Deputy Head of Cabin Services.
• Participate in management meetings, reporting on departmental news and updates.

The successful candidate will have the following experiences and attributes:

• Proven experience in a supervisory or management role within cabin crew operations in the aviation industry.
• Senior cabin crew experience demonstrating a thorough understanding of the role requirements.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Strong leadership and team‑management abilities.
• Background in employee relations.
• Collaborative, integrity‑driven, open‑minded and resilient.
• Ability to work under pressure and handle challenging situations.
• Knowledge of aviation regulations and safety standards.
• Strong IT skills and proficiency with airline‑specific software and systems.
• Flexibility to work in shifts, including weekends if required.
• Valid passport permitting unrestricted travel worldwide.
• Knowledge of other languages is desirable.
• Valid UK Attestation & UK CC Medical.

At Ascend Airways, we offer an attractive and inclusive working environment that supports career progression. If you are interested in this position, please contact recruitment@ascendairways.aero.