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8 hours ago
Department: Flight Operations | Location: Gaborone | Commitment: Full-time
Purpose of the Role To provide strategic leadership, operational oversight, and regulatory compliance for all Flight Operations functions, ensuring safe, efficient, cost-effective, and compliant airline operations, aligned with: ICAO Standards & Recommended Practices (SARPS) CAAB Regulatory requirements IOSA Audit Standards Airline operational and financial turnaround objectives The role is designated as the AOC Postholder for Flight Operations and constitutes a turnaround-critical executive function, accountable for restoring operational stability, aircraft utilisation, crew productivity, cost discipline, and regulatory compliance. The incumbent shall act as the operational command authority, responsible for converting fleet capacity and crew resources into safe, reliable, and commercially viable flight operations. The role reports to the General Manager and is a member of the Executive Committee (EXCO).
Job Summary
- Type: full-time
- Location: Gaborone
- Category: Aviation
- Closing Date: 2026-08-25
Key Responsibilities
- Ensure real-time operational control, disruption management, and network coordination.
- Develop and execute Flight Operations strategy aligned to airline turnaround.
- Ensure full compliance with mandatory training and licensing requirements.
- Ensure optimal crew utilisation and compliant dispatch operations
- Deliver safe, compliant, and customer-focused cabin operations.
- Performance appraisal systems (linked to KPIs)
- Competency-based assessments
- Line checks and proficiency checks
- Drive data-driven operational efficiency.
- Ensure zero compromise on safety and regulatory compliance.
- Maintain compliant and up-to-date operational documentation.
- Accountable as AOC Postholder – Flight Operations
Requirements
- Minimum Education requirements Degree in Aviation Management / Aeronautical Science / Engineering / Business Administration or related discipline.
- ICAO English Proficiency Level 4 certificate and a medical certificate.
- Commercial Pilot License (CPL) & Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL) – Mandatory
- ICAO-recognised certifications SMS and IOSA certification (preferred)
- Minimum Experience requirements Minimum 10-15 years relevant post qualification experience of which 5 years must have been in senior leadership role (Chief Pilot / Flight Ops Manager).
- AOC environment
- IOSA audits
- Multi-fleet or regional airline operations
- Operational turnaround / restructuring (highly desirable)
- Minimum of 10,000 flying hours as Captain on large aircraft as defined by CAAB.
How to Apply
To apply, please visit: airbotswana.mcidirecthire.com
About the Company
Air Botswana Corporation proudly serves as the national airline and flag carrier of Botswana. Headquartered at Sir Seretse Khama International Airport in Gaborone, it provides essential air transport services across the country and to key regional destinations. The airline operates scheduled passenger flights, linking major Botswanan towns like Francistown and Maun, while also facilitating travel to Southern African hubs such as Johannesburg and Cape Town. As a state-owned enterprise, Air Botswana plays a crucial role in fostering domestic connectivity, regional trade, and tourism, significantly contributing to Botswana's economic development.
Air Botswana: Your national carrier, connecting Botswana and Southern Africa.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the typical qualifications and certifications required for a Director Flight Operations role in Botswana's aviation sector?
Candidates typically need extensive experience as a commercial pilot, holding an Air Transport Pilot License (ATPL), alongside significant management experience in flight operations. A relevant Bachelor's or Master's degree in aviation management, business administration, or a related field is often highly preferred or required. Professional certifications in aviation safety or management are also advantageous for this senior role.
What would be the common day-to-day responsibilities for a Director Flight Operations at an airline like Air Botswana?
The role involves overseeing all aspects of flight operations, ensuring compliance with local regulations from entities like the Civil Aviation Authority of Botswana (CAAB) and international standards. Daily duties include managing pilot teams, flight scheduling, operational safety, and implementing efficiency improvements. Strategic planning for fleet utilization and operational growth is also a key responsibility.
What aspects of Botswana's local work culture and expectations should I be aware of in a senior aviation management role?
Botswana's professional culture often emphasizes respect for hierarchy, consensus-building, and strong interpersonal relationships within teams. Punctuality, reliability, and clear communication are highly valued, particularly in safety-critical environments like aviation. A commitment to local development and understanding the national context of the airline's operations is also important.
What are the realistic career progression or growth paths for a Director Flight Operations within Air Botswana or the wider aviation industry in Botswana?
Career progression from this role might involve moving into broader executive leadership positions within the airline, such as Chief Operating Officer (COO) or even CEO, given the strategic importance of flight operations. Opportunities could also arise in aviation regulatory bodies like CAAB or in regional/international aviation organizations. Continuous professional development and strategic networking are key for advancing in Botswana's aviation sector.
What are the typical benefits packages, such as leave, medical aid, and pension, offered for senior management positions in Botswana's parastatal organizations?
Senior management roles in parastatal organizations like Air Botswana typically offer comprehensive benefits packages designed to attract top talent. These generally include competitive annual leave allowances, robust medical aid coverage for the employee and dependents, and a well-structured pension scheme. Additional benefits might include housing allowances, company car benefits, or professional development opportunities.
How should I best prepare my application, and what do employers in Botswana specifically look for in candidates for such a high-level aviation role?
Your application should clearly highlight extensive experience in flight operations management, leadership skills, and a strong track record of ensuring safety and operational efficiency. Employers in Botswana look for candidates who demonstrate a deep understanding of local aviation regulations and the ability to operate within the country's unique economic and social context. Emphasize your ability to lead diverse teams and contribute to the airline's strategic objectives.