Location: Mid-West (On-Site, 5 Days per Week)
Sector: Aviation Business & VIP MRO
Type: Permanent | Senior Leadership
Please note this role is for US Citizens & Greencard holders only.
The Opportunity:
iO Associates is leading the search on behalf of a well-established VIP aviation MRO organisation in the United States. This is a senior leadership appointment for a quality professional who is ready to own and transform a quality function.
The incoming Director of Quality Assurance & Safety will play a central role in shaping the quality culture across the organisation, building a world-class QA/QC function, and ensuring the business is not just audit-ready, but genuinely excellent.
Key Responsibilities:
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Own and drive the Quality Management System (QMS) across the organisation, ensuring it is effective, current, and embedded in day-to-day operations
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Lead and develop the Quality Assurance and Quality Control teams
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Serve as the primary point of contact for all FAA regulatory matters, including audits, self-disclosures, and ongoing liaison with the relevant FSDO
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Maintain and develop the organisation’s Part 145 Repair Station certification, ensuring all processes and documentation remain fully compliant and operationally effective
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Support and develop the Safety Management System (SMS), working closely with operations and leadership to embed a proactive safety culture
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Collaborate with shop floor teams, back shops, and operational leadership to resolve quality issues at the source
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Provide guidance on Part 21 production certifications, PMA, ODA, and related regulatory frameworks as required
Required Experience & Background:
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Demonstrable experience running the quality function of a FAA Part 145 Repair Station
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A thorough understanding of airworthiness release and what it means to certify an aircraft for return to service
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A genuine shop floor background.. hands-on maintenance experience
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Proven ownership of a QMS
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Direct interaction with the FAA; EASA experience is a valuable bonus
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Strong working knowledge of QA/QC distinctions and the ability to build and lead high-performing teams in both disciplines
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Experience working with customers on quality matters
Preferred Qualifications
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A&P Licence (strongly preferred; candidates without will be considered where experience is exceptional)
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Knowledge of Part 21 production certifications, PMA, ODA, or SDC processes
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Safety Management System (SMS) experience
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EASA familiarity
What’s on Offer
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A senior leadership position with genuine scope to make an impact
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A well-established organisation with a strong reputation in the VIP aviation sector
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Competitive compensation package commensurate with experience
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Full relocation support available for the right candidate
For more details, please get in touch!