Deputy Safety and Compliance Manager in Darlington

Location: Teesside International Airport

Department: Safety & Compliance

Job Type: Full-time, Permanent

Reports to: Safety & Compliance Manager

Willis Aviation Services Ltd (WASL) is seeking an experienced Deputy Safety & Compliance Manager to support the leadership of our Safety & Compliance function within a UK CAA Part-145 Approved Maintenance Organisation. This is a key leadership role, responsible for managing and developing the organisation’s Safety Management System (SMS) and Compliance Monitoring System (CMS) while deputising for the Nominated Post Holder for Safety & Compliance. The role offers the opportunity to directly influence safety culture, regulatory compliance, and continuous improvement across a growing aviation organisation.

Key Responsibilities

• Deputise for the Nominated Post Holder in managing the Safety & Compliance Department
• Manage the Compliance Monitoring System to ensure compliance with Part 145 and other regulatory requirements through audits, assessments, and oversight activities
• Identify, document, and manage non-compliances, implementing corrective actions and driving continuous improvement initiatives
• Lead hazard identification and risk assessment activities to ensure robust safety management processes
• Design and implement safety assurance processes, including training and competency assessment of certifying personnel
• Monitor and control amendments to organisational procedures to maintain compliance with Part 145 and regulatory guidance
• Assess suppliers, material providers, standard parts, components, subcontractors, and contracted organisations for quality and regulatory compliance
• Coordinate airworthiness occurrences, initiating investigations and overseeing follow-up actions as required
• Establish and manage initial and continuation training programmes, including retention and control of training records
• Promote and uphold a strong Just Culture within the approved maintenance organisation

Requirements

Eligibility & Background

• Acceptable or near acceptable to the UK CAA as a Nominated Post Holder (Safety and/or Compliance Monitoring)
• One of the following professional backgrounds:

• Valid or previously held UK Part-66 Aircraft Maintenance Licence (AML)
• Aeronautical Engineering Degree from a recognised university
• Substantial experience within an aircraft maintenance or continuing airworthiness environment

Essential

• Extensive knowledge of Part 145, Part CAMO, and Part 66 regulations
• UK CAA Part-145 Regulations training
• Proven experience as an internal auditor, with recognised auditing training
• Strong organisational, analytical, and leadership skills
• Excellent written and verbal communication, with the ability to engage internal and external stakeholders
• High attention to detail, integrity, and professionalism
• Ability to work autonomously while fostering collaborative team environments
• Strong problem-solving and critical thinking skills, focused on safety and continuous improvement

Desirable

• Human Factors training
• Fuel Tank Safety / CDCCL
• Electrical Wiring Interconnect System (EWIS)
• Previously held Part-66 AML

Benefits

Why Join WASL?

• Work in a safety-focused, regulated aviation environment
• Influence safety performance and regulatory compliance at senior levels
• Opportunities for professional development and ongoing training

About Us: Willis Aviation Services Limited are part of Willis Lease Finance Corporation, a global aviation services provider for over 45 years. Our Teesside International Airport facility offers base maintenance, return to service, aircraft disassembly, aircraft storage, and ground/cargo handling services. At WASL, we are committed to diversity, inclusion, and fair hiring practices, valuing contributions based on qualifications, experience, and role competency.

Recruitment Agencies: WASL does not accept unsolicited CVs from recruitment agencies. Any CVs submitted without prior agreement will be treated as the property of WASL, and no fees will be paid.