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- Tasks: Lead and shape the Special Aviation Missions Group in Europe, driving operational excellence.
- Company: Join Metrea, a leader in national security solutions across multiple domains.
- Benefits: Enjoy private medical insurance, gym memberships, and enhanced parental leave.
- Why this job: Be at the forefront of innovative aviation operations and make a real impact.
- Qualifications: Senior leadership experience in aerospace, with a knack for building high-performing teams.
- Other info: Hybrid work environment with opportunities for international travel.
The predicted salary is between 72000 - 108000 ÂŁ per year.
Company Overview
Metrea delivers effects-as-a-service to national security partners across five domains and more than a dozen mission areas, including ISR, electronic warfare, secure communications, aerial refuelling, special mission aviation, firefighting, and advanced simulation.
Group Overview
Special Aviation Missions (Europe) Group (SAM) is one of two Groups responsible for developing and delivering Metrea’s Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR), Aerial Firefighting (AFF) and Special Mobility capabilities. Alongside SAM (US), SAM (Europe) oversees the integration of new mission systems, ensuring operational readiness across specialized aviation operations in and from Europe. It manages regulatory compliance and strategic partnerships to enhance mission effectiveness whilst supporting SAM US with fleet maintenance. By consolidating expertise and infrastructure, SAM Groups ensure Metrea’s airborne capabilities remain adaptable and mission-ready across dynamic operational environments.
Position Summary
The Head of Special Air Missions (Europe) is a newly created senior leadership role responsible for shaping and leading Metrea’s European SAM organization. This leader will define the structure, capabilities, and culture (we call it FIRMWARE) of the organization while ensuring operational excellence across high-value aerospace programs throughout Europe. This is a builder-and-operator role: someone who can design scalable systems, frameworks, and teams (“on the Group”), while being deeply engaged in delivering results day-to-day (“in the Group”). The Head of SAM (Europe) will scale teams across multiple countries, influence the wider business, and operate effectively in ambiguity, all while cultivating a culture aligned with Metrea’s FIRMWARE. This role leads through collaboration rather than hierarchy, building trust and influence across geographies and functions. It requires identifying and developing top talent while driving alignment across the enterprise, and is central to achieving Metrea’s vision of safe, assured, and scalable global aviation operations.
Role and Responsibilities
- Shaping the Group (
Head of Special Aviation Mission Group Europe employer: Metrea
Contact Detail:
Metrea Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Special Aviation Mission Group Europe
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to folks in the aviation and defence sectors, especially those connected to Metrea. Attend industry events or webinars, and don’t be shy about sliding into DMs on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by diving deep into Metrea’s mission and values. Understand their FIRMWARE culture and think about how your experience aligns with their goals. Bring examples of how you’ve built teams and driven results in complex environments—this will show you’re the right fit for the Head of SAM role.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just wait for job postings—be proactive! If you see a role that excites you, apply through our website and follow up with a friendly email to express your enthusiasm. Show them you’re serious about joining the team and ready to contribute to their mission.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay adaptable and open-minded during your job search. The aerospace and defence sectors can be unpredictable, so being flexible in your approach and ready to tackle challenges will set you apart. Highlight your problem-solving skills and ability to thrive in ambiguity during conversations with potential employers.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Special Aviation Mission Group Europe
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in aerospace and defence. We want to see how your skills align with the Head of Special Aviation Mission Group role, so don’t hold back on showcasing your relevant achievements!
Showcase Your Leadership Style: Since this role is all about collaboration and building teams, let us know how you lead through influence rather than hierarchy. Share examples of how you've developed talent and fostered a unified team culture in your previous roles.
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so make sure your key points stand out. Use bullet points where necessary to make it easy for us to read through your qualifications.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at Metrea
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you have a solid understanding of Metrea's operations, especially in the Special Aviation Missions area. Brush up on your knowledge of ISR, aerial firefighting, and aviation regulations like EASA/CAA. This will show that you're genuinely interested and prepared for the role.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
Since this role is all about collaboration and building teams, be ready to discuss your leadership approach. Share examples of how you've successfully scaled teams across different geographies and how you foster a unified culture. Highlight your ability to operate effectively in ambiguity.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills and judgment. Think of scenarios where you've had to make tough decisions or manage risks in complex situations. Be ready to explain your thought process and the outcomes of your actions.
✨Align with the Company Culture
Familiarise yourself with Metrea’s core values and attributes. During the interview, demonstrate how you embody these traits—entrepreneurial, systematic, discerning, and over-delivering. Share personal anecdotes that reflect your alignment with their culture and how you can contribute to it.
