Vice President of Operations

Our client is a highly successful aviation company with over 50 years of operational excellence, operating one of the largest aircraft leasing businesses in the United States. With 300+ training aircraft (single and multi-engine) valued at approximately $85 million, they lease to flight schools nationwide and maintain a unique market position with no close competitors in their specialized niche. The company also operates a Fixed Base Operation (FBO) providing comprehensive aviation services. Due to a recent leadership transition, they are seeking a dynamic executive to lead operations and position for future succession opportunities.

Position Summary

We are seeking an exceptional Vice President of Operations to serve as the primary executor of the CEO's strategic vision and take ownership of day-to-day operations. This role offers significant autonomy, leadership responsibility, and a clear pathway to executive succession (President/COO). The ideal candidate will be a dynamic leader capable of driving culture change, optimizing performance, and managing operations independently during extended owner travel periods.

Key Responsibilities

Operational Leadership & Vision Execution

• Execute the CEO's strategic vision across all operational functions with significant autonomy
• Take full ownership of day-to-day operations for aircraft leasing and FBO businesses
• Drive operational efficiency improvements and performance optimization
• Ensure proper aircraft maintenance and cost-effective returns to customers at lowest cost
• Optimize asset allocation to appropriate customers for maximum profitability

Process Development & Standardization

• Develop, implement, and maintain standardized processes and procedures
• Create a culture of process adherence and continuous improvement
• Drive annual rate increases (3-5%) through strategic pricing initiatives
• Analyze and improve operational metrics impacting P&L performance

Team Leadership & Management

• Lead and manage approximately 20+ team members
• Continue culture change initiatives and drive performance improvements
• Conduct realistic, unemotional assessments of staff performance
• Make strategic personnel decisions including hiring and termination when necessary
• Invest in employee development while maintaining high accountability standards

Business Development & Customer Management

• Analyze customer base to identify expansion opportunities and pricing improvements
• Serve as an effective negotiator creating win-win solutions for customers and suppliers
• Drive customer satisfaction and retention through superior service delivery
• Support business growth initiatives and market expansion

Financial & Strategic Analysis

• Provide fundamental business insights to advise on P&L impact
• Monitor key success metrics including maintenance costs, asset utilization, and pricing
• Identify opportunities for cost optimization and revenue growth
• Support strategic planning and decision-making processes

Independent Operations Management

• Operate with full autonomy during owner travel periods (including extended 3-month trips)
• Handle emergency situations and operational challenges as they arise
• Maintain business continuity and performance standards during all conditions

Experience & Background

• Proven operations management experience, preferably with assets/equipment management
• Demonstrated success in leadership roles driving organizational change
• Experience managing teams and making difficult personnel decisions
• Background in manufacturing, equipment leasing, asset management, logistics, or related industries

Technical Skills

• Fundamental understanding of P&L, balance sheets, and payroll management
• Asset management capabilities and operational efficiency optimization
• Basic business acumen to assess operational impacts on financial performance

Leadership Competencies

• Dynamic leadership style with ability to be "bad cop" when necessary
• Process-driven mindset with focus on standardization and adherence
• Proven ability to work with long-term staff while driving change
• Strong negotiation and relationship-building skills
• Autonomous self-starter requiring minimal oversight

Preferred Qualifications

• Aviation industry experience (can be taught if not present)
• Experience in similar asset-intensive businesses
• Background in customer-facing operations
• Track record of successful culture transformation initiatives

• Annual base salary ~$150,000 - $200,000
• Compensation flexible for exceptional candidates
• Comprehensive benefits package
• Permanent, full-time position with on-call availability for emergencies

Why This Opportunity?

Unique Market Position

• Lead operations for the largest player in specialized aviation training market
• 300+ aircraft significantly larger than nearest competitor (~75 aircraft)
• No close competitors in specific niche market

Growth & Succession Potential

• Clear pathway to President/COO role for the right candidate
• Owner seeking someone who could eventually "take over the keys"
• Significant autonomy with mentorship and development support
• Opportunity to shape the future of a well-established, profitable business

Immediate Impact

• Take ownership of substantial operations from day one
• Drive culture change and performance improvements
• Lead a established team in a stable, profitable business
• Make strategic decisions affecting $85M in aircraft assets

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