Aviation jobs in South Africa

Location: Bedfordview, Gauteng

Salary: R700 000 to R1 000 000 Annually

Type: Permanent

A leading provider of innovative solutions in the aviation and defense sectors, is looking for a Branch Manager (Defence and Aviation Operations) to join their team. This company specializes in supporting both commercial and defense operators. Focused on building strategic partnerships and delivering exceptional value, it is expanding operations with a new branch in South Africa to drive business development and enhance its global presence. The Branch Office Manager will be a key player in establishing our presence in South Africa and will play a vital role in promoting our services to stakeholders in Abu Dhabi and beyond. This position requires a strategic thinker with extensive experience in the defence and aviation industry, a deep understanding of market dynamics, and a passion for driving growth through innovative business solutions.

1. Language Skills: Candidates with proficiency in French, Arabic, are preferred.
2. Education: Bachelor’s degree in business administration, Aviation Management, or a related field (Master’s degree preferred).
3. Experience: Minimum of 7-10 years of experience in business development or management roles within the aviation industry, with a proven track record in driving sales growth.
4. Related Experience: Related experience in the defence sector is highly desirable, including previous employment with defence contractors or governmental organizations.
5. Market Knowledge: Familiarity with both defence and commercial aviation markets is essential.
6. Skills: Strong analytical and strategic thinking abilities to navigate complex market landscapes.
7. Communication: Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence and engage a diverse range of stakeholders.
8. Leadership: Demonstrated leadership skills with experience in managing and developing teams in a multicultural environment.
9. Project Management: Proficiency in project management, budgeting, and operational oversight.
10. Local Knowledge: Knowledge of South African business practices, cultural nuances, and regulatory frameworks is advantageous.
11. Travel: Willingness to travel within the region as required.

1. Strategic Business Development: Conduct thorough market research to identify opportunities for growth in the defence & aviation sector. Develop, implement, and monitor comprehensive business development strategies tailored to the South African market. Establish and nurture relationships with potential clients, government entities, and industry stakeholders to enhance business opportunities.
2. Operational Leadership: Oversee the daily operations of the branch office, ensuring optimal efficiency and alignment with corporate goals. Develop and manage budgets, ensuring resource allocation aligns with business objectives while maximizing profitability. Implement best practices for operational processes and maintain high standards of service delivery.
3. Marketing and Brand Promotion: Create and execute marketing plans to raise awareness of our services within the South African market. Organize and represent the company at industry events, trade shows, and networking functions to enhance visibility and build connections. Collaborate with the corporate marketing team to tailor promotional materials and campaigns for the region.
4. Team Development and Leadership: Recruit, train, and mentor a high-performing local team, fostering a culture of collaboration and excellence. Provide ongoing support and professional development opportunities to enhance team capabilities. Set performance objectives, conduct regular reviews, and drive team accountability.
5. Market Analysis and Reporting: Monitor industry trends, competitor activities, and regulatory changes to inform business strategies. Prepare detailed reports on business performance, market insights, and growth initiatives for senior management. Utilize analytics to assess the effectiveness of business development efforts and adjust strategies as necessary.