Head of Safety and Assurance

We are the UK's aviation and aerospace regulator and recognised as a world leader in its field. Our activities are diverse, enabling the aviation industry to meet the highest safety standards, and we pride ourselves on our ability to adapt to the constantly evolving aviation environment.

The Role

• Lead and direct the Safety & Assurance team.
• Lead the development, implementation, maintenance and continuous improvement of the CAA State Safety Programme (SSP).
• Collaborate with SARG Executive Committee (ExCo) and SARG and CAA Leadership 50 (L50) members to support the GD SARG on safety risk and regulatory compliance management.
• Lead and implement the safety strategy, including the framework to manage and coordinate the National Aviation Safety Plan (NASP).
• Provide inspirational and effective leadership to the Safety & Assurance team.
• Chair the Safety & Assurance Governance Group (SAGG).
• Lead the coordination and delivery of the safety and quality governance framework.
• Engage with the Department for Transport (DfT) Aviation Safety team and other UK SSP partners.
• Lead the Safety & Assurance team through objectives, defined activities and actions required to establish and maintain full alignment of ICAO Annex 19, the SSP and RSMS.

Decision Making

• Responsible for leading the decision-making process on changes to the RSMS and safety governance.
• Formulate strategies and recommendations to resolve safety and compliance related problems.
• Worldwide influence with ICAO, FAA, EASA and other National Aviation Authorities on safety risk management and compliance monitoring.
• Developing and nurturing a working relationship with the Air Accident Investigation Branch (AAIB).
• Promote and support activities that create/increase awareness, understanding and ownership of safety and compliance responsibilities.
• Develop the team’s approach and ways of working to a business partnering model.

Management

• Management of a combined team of around 40 colleagues.
• Budget management of circa £2.8m.
• Organise, conduct and/or participate in seminars, workshops, meetings training to assist CAA Teams and/or regulated entities.

About You

• Aviation experience at a senior operational level within Safety.
• Proven leadership experience in safety management.
• Demonstrable experience of implementing safety risk management framework.
• Experience in strategy development, implementation and management.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Able to make clear decisions and solve complex problems.
• Ability to produce reports and papers on technical issues up to Board level.

Additional Information

For many appointments within the CAA, these roles require access to operationally sensitive infrastructure and/or Nationally Protected information. For these roles the post holders must undergo National Security Vetting and achieve the appropriate level of clearance.

Inclusive Recruitment

We are passionate about diversity and ensuring all are included at the CAA. We are an equal opportunity employer and actively encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds.

Working With Us

We have embraced hybrid working and offer flexible working patterns, being open to having a conversation about what works for you. We know where and when we work is important in achieving a work-life balance. We offer a range of excellent benefits such as flexible working arrangements, free onsite gym at Gatwick, discounted gym membership for London, 28 days annual leave, additional 5 days leave purchase scheme, a generous pension scheme and much more!