George J. Priester Aviation, a leader in the 135-charter industry, has been delivering exceptional aviation services. Our commitment to safety, professionalism, and customer satisfaction has earned us a reputation as a trusted partner in the skies. We are passionate about aviation and dedicated to fostering a supportive and dynamic work environment.

Position Summary:

As the Director of Flight Services, you will be responsible for leading the various Flight Services team members across the multiple GJP bases maintaining a cohesive, global Flight Services department. This strategic leadership role requires deep knowledge of aviation operations, leadership in cross-functional collaboration, and the ability to drive innovation and efficiency at scale. The Director will ensure consistent and high-quality service delivery, standardize best practices, foster a unified culture, and oversee the development of systems and processes that bring together flight services teams from different locations into a singular, high-performing unit.

Key Responsibilities:

Strategic Leadership and Integration:
- Lead the integration of flight service operations across multiple U.S. bases, ensuring alignment with company goals and global flight services strategies.
- Develop and implement a roadmap to create a seamless and cohesive global flight services team, harmonizing policies, procedures, and operational standards across all bases.
- Establish and execute a clear communication strategy to ensure alignment and collaboration between geographically dispersed teams.
- Work as part of the GJP leadership team helping coordinate cross-departmental priorities, aligning our growth with our company, customer and employee goals and needs.
- Partners with company presidents to standardize operational and service delivery with Owner Services and Aviation Service Managers across all accounts.
Team Development and Culture Building:
- Build a unified and high-performance flight services team by fostering collaboration, promoting professional development, and enhancing team engagement.
- Create and implement training programs to support a global flight services team and ensure ongoing professional development.
- Lead efforts to build a positive and inclusive team culture, reinforcing core values across all locations.
Operational Excellence:
- Standardize operating procedures and quality control measures to ensure the highest level of consistency and safety across all flight services.
- Collaborate with other departments (flight operations, maintenance, safety, HR, etc.) to ensure efficient and effective operations and the smooth implementation of changes.
- Monitor performance metrics, analyze trends, and drive continuous improvement in all areas of flight services.
- Actively participating in the SMS program and process and part of the GJP safety committee.
Innovation and Process Improvement:
- Identify opportunities for process optimization and technological advancements to enhance flight service operations globally.
- Champion initiatives to improve the customer experience, operational efficiency, and overall service quality.
- Lead the implementation of and help build out new technologies, systems, and tools to enhance communication, coordination, and operational workflows.
Stakeholder Engagement:
- Serve as the primary point of contact between flight services teams and senior management, providing regular updates and recommendations on team performance and strategic direction.
- Serve as the primary point of contact between flight services teams and base presidents/owner services, providing direction to flight services team members based on account management feedback.
- Build strong relationships with key internal stakeholders (i.e. safety, maintenance, flight operations), to ensure alignment of flight services objectives with broader organizational goals.
Budget and Resource Management:
- Oversee the budget for flight services, ensuring cost-effective allocation of resources and that operational expenditures align with strategic goals.
- Manage staffing and resource planning to meet the needs of a growing global flight services team.
- Oversee the 24/7 schedule for the flight services team, ensuring 100% services coverage across all operations and accounts.
- Delivers team performance management feedback and coaches the flight services team towards service excellence including delivery of opportunities for further education and training.

Qualifications

Qualifications:

Education:
- Bachelor’s degree in Aviation Management, Business Administration, or a related field.
Experience:
- 10+ years of experience in aviation operations, with at least 5 years in a leadership role overseeing flight services or related functions.
- Proven experience in managing and integrating operations across multiple locations or teams.
- Strong understanding of aviation regulations, industry standards, and safety protocols.
Skills:
- Excellent leadership and people management skills, with the ability to inspire, motivate, and manage teams remotely.
- Exceptional communication skills, including the ability to collaborate with cross-functional teams and executives.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with a focus on process improvement and operational efficiency.
- Proficiency in using flight operations software, data analysis tools, and other relevant technology.
Other Requirements:
- Individual is required to be based in either Chicago, IL or Denver, CO.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office programs, including Word, Excel, and Outlook.
- Willingness to travel across the U.S. and internationally as needed.
- Ability to work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment with shifting priorities.
- Strong emotional intelligence and a passion for creating a collaborative, inclusive workplace culture.