Operations Manager - Aircraft Maintenance in Bournemouth

Draken offers exciting careers that matter. We believe that mission success begins with our people and that fair reward and recognition are essential. We offer competitive salaries and a comprehensive benefits package including up to 12% matching pension contributions, bonus incentives, discounts, and wellbeing programmes.

This role reports to the Aircraft Maintenance Manager and coordinates the Operations and variations to the Integrated Delivery Team (IDT) plan and customer demand from the IDT. All activities are delivered on behalf of the AMM in accordance with applicable Aviation Regulations, International Standards and the Maintenance Organisation Exposition (MOE). The Operations Manager – Aircraft Maintenance (OM‑AM) ensures that each IDT has a suitably qualified and experienced person (SQEP) assigned to fulfil the Chief Engineer role within the IDT. The OM‑AM supports the AMM to drive change, solve problems, mediate disputes, and address issues before they reach the AMM. The OM‑AM may deputise for the AMM during times of absence.

Key Responsibilities

• Knowledge and experience of regulatory documents and standards including: UK CAA, UK MAA, EASA.
• Ensure that all areas under the AMO comply with applicable Aviation Regulations and International Standards.
• Maintain the Maintenance Organisation Exposition (MOE) and relevant procedures and documentation to reflect best industry practice.
• Maintain a robust First and Second Lines of Defence Compliance (Quality) monitoring system across all AMO areas.
• Provide effective guidance and support to the AMM and Chief Engineers; ensure Chief Engineers are equipped, trained, and competent.
• Drive a culture of safety, compliance, and ethical behaviour.
• Coach, mentor, motivate, and engage personnel to achieve objectives.
• Promote continuous improvement and talent development.
• Support succession planning and build resilience and depth in the AMO and POA.
• Operational performance – ensure on‑time delivery of the maintenance programme.
• Financial performance – deliver maintenance programmes on‑budget against KPIs.
• Client management and engagement.
• Change Management – manage ethical and sustainable change programmes.
• Contract & Commercial Bid Activity – provide support during bids.
• Procurement & Supply Chain – advise to ensure compliant aircraft parts procurement.
• Provide a focal point for Chief Engineers for advice on aviation regulatory requirements, process development, and procedure development.

Special Conditions

• Deputise for the AMM during absence.
• Ad hoc / out‑of‑hours work as required.
• Domestic and international travel as required.
• Any other reasonable duties within the scope of the role.

Experience & Qualifications

• Expert knowledge of Commercial Aircraft Management principles and practices – Required.
• Extensive proven experience in a similar role – Required.
• Expert knowledge of UK CAA, EASA, and MAA Regulations – Required.
• UK CAA Part 66 B1 or B2 Licensed Aircraft Engineer – Advantageous.
• Practical knowledge of ISO 9001, ISO 45001, ISO 14001 & ISO 27001 in aviation – Required.
• Knowledge of Safety Management System (SMS) principles in aviation – Required.
• Experience in people and cultural change management – Required.
• Tertiary-level Business/Management Qualification – Advantageous.
• Ability to hold an SC‑Level security clearance – Required.

Personal Skills & Attributes

• Excellent at nurturing, mentoring, guiding, and influencing personnel.
• Strong communication and presentation skills at all levels.
• Strong business acumen; highly self‑motivated, assertive, and resilient.
• Excellent organisational and time‑management skills; able to meet tight deadlines.
• Proficient in MS Office and company software.
• High integrity, confidentiality, and discretion.

Draken is committed to eliminating unlawful and unfair discrimination. We celebrate the differences that a diverse workforce brings and value the perspectives and talent that support our success. We are an Armed Forces friendly organisation and support the Armed Forces Covenant; we welcome applications from veterans and partners who meet the criteria in our job specifications. We provide reasonable adjustments to facilitate our interview process; please liaise with us if adjustments are required.

We offer readiness training and services in the UK, US and NATO countries, with a focus on accuracy, speed, and mission readiness.