At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead compliance and safety management for innovative aerospace solutions.
- Company: Join Safran, a global leader in aerospace technology and innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career growth, and opportunities to travel internationally.
- Other info: Dynamic team environment with a focus on continual improvement.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on aviation safety and regulatory compliance.
- Qualifications: Degree in engineering or related field with aerospace regulatory knowledge.
Safran is an international high-technology group operating in the fields of aerospace (propulsion, equipment and interiors), space and defense. Its mission is to contribute sustainably to a safer world, where air transport becomes ever more environmentally friendly, comfortable and accessible. Present on every continent, the Group employs 110,000 people and generated €31.3 billion in revenue in 2025. Safran holds, either independently or through partnerships, leading global or European positions in its markets. Safran was ranked second in the Aerospace & Defense sector in TIME magazine's "World's Best Companies 2025" ranking.
With more than one million seats installed across the fleets of the world's leading airlines, Safran Seats is one of the global leaders in passenger, crew, aircraft and helicopter seating, delivering innovative, high value-added solutions. The Head of Regulatory Compliance, Business Systems and Safety Management is accountable for the Safran Seats GB Business Management System, Safety Management System and regulatory compliance framework within the Quality function. The role ensures that Safran Seats GB remains compliant with applicable aerospace requirements, including EASA, CAA, AS9100 and Part 21/145 where applicable. It also ensures that aviation safety risks are identified, assessed, controlled, monitored and reported in line with ICAO Annex 19, EASA/CAA expectations and Safran governance requirements.
Working through a small team and cross-functional influence, the role provides leadership for system governance, compliance monitoring, audits, corrective actions, safety performance and continual improvement.
Scope
- Leads a small Quality Compliance, Business Systems and Safety Management team.
- Provides cross-functional governance across Safran Seats GB.
- Acts as the focal point for regulatory compliance, BMS governance and SMS performance.
- Interfaces with Safran Group, Safran Seats governance, customers, certification bodies and regulatory authorities.
- Owns governance of audits, BMS/SMS reporting and corrective action oversight.
- Occasional UK and international travel may be required.
Essential Skills for the role
- Degree level qualification or equivalent experience in engineering, manufacturing, quality, aviation safety or a related discipline.
- Strong knowledge of aerospace regulatory and quality requirements, including EASA, CAA, AS9100 and Part 21/145 where applicable.
- Experience managing business management systems, regulatory compliance, certification approvals and audits in a regulated aerospace or manufacturing environment.
- Understanding of aviation safety management principles, including hazard identification, safety risk management, safety assurance and safety promotion.
- Experience defining and reporting quality, compliance and safety performance indicators.
- Competence in audit planning, root cause analysis, corrective action management and risk analysis.
- Knowledge of Human Factors and their application to aviation safety and operational risk.
- Experience engaging with regulatory authorities, customers, certification bodies and senior stakeholders.
Desirable Skills for the role
- AS9100 Lead Auditor or equivalent recognised audit qualification.
- Formal SMS, aviation safety investigation, Human Factors or occurrence reporting training.
- Lean, Six Sigma, continuous improvement or leadership qualification.
- Experience with digital BMS, audit, risk or compliance management tools.
Head of Regulatory Compliance, Business Systems and Safety employer: Safran UK
At Safran, we prioritise our people and offer a supportive work environment that fosters diversity, innovation, and opportunity. With an impressive range of benefits including 33 days of holiday, a leading pension scheme, and enhanced family-friendly policies, we are committed to employee growth and well-being. Join us in Cwmbran, where you can be part of a global leader in aerospace and defence, contributing to a sustainable future while enjoying a vibrant work culture and numerous engagement opportunities.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Regulatory Compliance, Business Systems and Safety
✨Join Compliance Communities
Get involved in compliance and risk communities — both online and offline. Look for forums, LinkedIn groups, or even local meetups where compliance pros hang out. You never know who might drop a job opportunity your way!
✨Attend Industry Conferences
Keep an eye out for compliance and risk management conferences and workshops in your area. These events are a goldmine for networking, and they often have job boards or recruiters on-site looking for new talent. Plus, it’s a chance to learn what's trending in the field.
✨Leverage Your University Career Services
If you’ve recently graduated or are still studying, head over to your university's career services. Many companies, including those in compliance, actively recruit fresh talent through these services, so make sure you tap into that resource.
✨Showcase Your Knowledge Online
Start writing articles or blog posts about compliance topics that interest you. Share them on platforms like LinkedIn to demonstrate your knowledge and passion. This not only builds your presence in the field but can also catch the attention of companies like Safran UK looking for candidates who are engaged and informed.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Regulatory Compliance, Business Systems and Safety
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Understanding of Compliance:In the compliance-risk field, it's super important to showcase your understanding of regulations and risk management frameworks. Highlight any relevant coursework, certifications (like ICA or AML), or even projects that demonstrate your knowledge and commitment to this area. We want to see how you can navigate this complex landscape!
Quantify Your Achievements:When detailing your experience, try to quantify your achievements. For example, if you've previously worked on a project that improved compliance metrics or reduced risk exposure, give us the numbers! This data-driven approach really stands out to hiring managers in compliance-risk roles.
Tailor Your CV to Reflect Relevant Skills:Make sure your CV highlights skills that are particularly relevant to compliance, like attention to detail, analytical thinking, and report writing. Ensure these are easy to spot – consider using bullet points to break down your responsibilities and achievements for maximum impact!
Craft a Motivating Cover Letter:In your cover letter, let us know why you’re excited about the compliance-risk role at Safran UK. Share what motivates you about compliance, and how you believe you can contribute to our mission. This is your chance to showcase not only your skills but also your passion for this important field!
How to prepare for a job interview at Safran UK
✨Master the Regulations
Brush up on key compliance regulations relevant to the industry you're applying to. Familiarising yourself with specific laws and frameworks used in your field will give you an edge during technical questions. Show that you’re not just aware of them but can also apply them—think real-life scenarios!
✨Show Your Analytical Skills
Compliance roles really focus on analytical skills, so be prepared for case studies or situational questions during the interview. We've got to demonstrate how we approach risk assessments or compliance audits, possibly drawing on examples from past experiences or university projects. Bring some thoughtful case scenarios to discuss!
✨Know Your Tools
Get comfortable with commonly used compliance software and tools. Familiarity with platforms like RSA or MetricStream can really impress during your interview, as it shows you're ready to hit the ground running. If you’ve had any experience with them, make sure to highlight that!
✨Align with Company Culture
Since it's a full-time position, show your long-term commitment and interest in the company’s mission and values. Dive into how your ethics and professional philosophy align with Safran UK’s stance on compliance. A shared vision can really resonate with interviewers looking for fit as much as skill!
