Our client, a well-funded organization in a regulated sector, is launching a new commercial aviation operation and seeking a leader to build the enterprise from the ground up. This position offers the chance to shape the foundational elements of an emerging business.The ideal candidate brings deep expertise in aviation regulation, strong operational leadership capabilities, and an entrepreneurial spirit suited to navigating a dynamic, high-pressure startup landscape.Certification & Regulatory OversightBuild relationships with key regulatory bodies and industry stakeholders to support operational readinessLead FAA certification and regulatory approval processes, ensuring full compliance with federal aviation standardsEstablish and maintain robust safety, compliance, and operational frameworks that meet or exceed regulatory requirementsServe as the primary executive liaison with FAA regulators and other government agencies, ensuring alignment and responsiveness throughout all regulatory milestonesTeam Building & Organizational DevelopmentSet performance culture, decision-making cadence, and accountability standards from day oneDefine organizational structure, roles, accountabilities, and reporting relationships to support regulatory approval and operational scaleFoster a high-trust, high-performance culture aligned with both safety excellence and brand aspirationsRecruit, hire, and lead the foundational executive team across operations, safety, compliance, maintenance, and finance functionsStrategic Operations & ImplementationDevelop scalable standard operating procedures (SOPs), governance structures, and systems to support future expansionOversee strategy, operational partnerships, vendor relationships, and readiness milestonesDefine and execute the operational roadmap from planning through launch and early-stage growthBalance service delivery with disciplined cost management and uncompromising safety standardsCustomer Experience, Brand & Market StrategyEnsure operational delivery consistently reflects the positioning and brand promisePartner with key stakeholders to shape service standards, service philosophy, and customer experience standardsPosition the business competitively within the travel marketIntegrate service excellence into operational processes, training programs, and frontline accountabilityInvestor & Board EngagementMaintain transparency and accountability in all board and investor communicationsPresent operational progress, regulatory milestones, and financial performance to investors and stakeholdersParticipate in fundraising efforts and represent the company's vision and capability to current and prospective investorsServe as the senior executive interface with the Board of Directors, providing strategic updates and seeking guidance on key decisionsRequirementsProven experience overseeing organizational development and launch activities, including team formation, systems development, and regulatory processesExceptional judgment and credibility in navigating complex regulatory environments and building trust with government agenciesDeep commercial aviation regulatory experience, including significant involvement in FAA certification processesStrategic and operational versatility: able to think big-picture while driving detailed executionHigh credibility across diverse stakeholder groups, including technical teams, operational staff, board members, and investorsAbility to operate effectively in complex, high-ambiguity settings with changing prioritiesWillingness to travel extensively and relocate as operational needs requireStrong command of FAA regulations, safety management systems (SMS), and compliance frameworks applicable to commercial aviation operationsProven executive leadership as CEO, President, COO, VP Operations, or General Manager in aviation or similarly regulated, safety-critical industriesPreferred QualificationsExperience integrating brand vision with operational execution, ensuring service delivery aligns with market positioningBackground in aviation or service industries with a focus on customer experience and brand differentiationPrior experience as CEO, President, or COO with ultimate P&L and operational accountabilityDirect leadership experience in FAA certification processes for aviation operationsExperience in private aviation, charter operations, or emerging aviation business modelsInvestor-facing leadership experience, including fundraising, stakeholder management, and articulating vision to financial backersExperience across multi-site or multi-certificate operating environments is highly valuedTrack record in scaling organizations from startup to mature operational phasesBenefitsFlexible paid time off (PTO) policy401(k) retirement plan with employer contributionBase Salary: $350,000 – $425,000 annually + Performance-Based CompensationComprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance (employee and family coverage)Keller is a recruitment agency that provides services to clients ranging from startups and non profits to multinational corporations. Keller emphasizes ethical search processes, attentive candidate care, and leadership placements that support long-term client outcomes.
