Kenya Airways, the leading African airline flying to more African destinations than any other carrier, takes pride in being at the forefront of connecting Africa to the world and the World to Africa through its hub Nairobi Jomo Kenyatta International Airport.

Summary

The candidate will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of operations, from planning and execution to client engagement and team management. This role requires a blend of technical expertise, leadership skills, business acumen, and a deep understanding of regulatory requirements in the UAS industry. The ideal candidate must ensure a high performing team of UAS Operators and support crew through development and implementation of operational standards, professional development, and leadership for a safe, legal and efficient operation of Fahari Aviation UAS that meets the operational requirements of the ROC.

Principal Accountabilities (Responsibilities)

Operational Excellence

• Develop and implement strategies to ensure efficient and effective UAS operations, including mission planning, execution, and post-mission analysis.
• Monitor and optimize key performance indicators (KPIs) related to UAS services, such as mission success rate, turnaround time, and customer satisfaction.
• Lead continuous improvement initiatives to enhance operational processes, safety protocols, and quality standards.

Team Leadership and Development

• Provide leadership and guidance to a team of UAS operators, technicians, and support personnel, fostering a culture of excellence, collaboration, and safety.
• Set clear performance expectations, conduct regular performance evaluations, and support team members’ professional development through training and mentoring.
• Promote a positive and inclusive work environment that encourages innovation, creativity, and teamwork.

Client Relationship Management

• Act as the primary point of contact for clients, understanding their needs, expectations, and feedback regarding UAS services.
• Collaborate with sales and marketing teams to identify new business opportunities, develop proposals, and nurture client relationships to ensure customer satisfaction and retention.
• Address client inquiries, concerns, and escalations in a timely and professional manner, seeking solutions and fostering long-term partnerships.

Regulatory Compliance and Risk Management

• Ensure compliance with aviation regulations, industry standards, and company policies related to UAS operations, safety, and data privacy.
• Conduct risk assessments and implement risk mitigation strategies to minimize operational risks and maintain a safe working environment.
• Stay updated on regulatory changes, technological advancements, and best practices in the UAS industry, incorporating relevant updates into operational procedures.

Financial Management and Budgeting

• Manage budgeting, forecasting, and cost control for the UAS service line, optimizing resource allocation and expenditures to achieve financial targets.
• Monitor revenue generation, profitability, and cost-efficiency of UAS services, identifying opportunities for revenue growth and cost optimization.
• Prepare and present financial reports, business cases, and proposals to stakeholders, highlighting performance metrics and strategic recommendations.

Innovation and Technology Integration

• Evaluate emerging technologies, tools, and methodologies to enhance UAS services, improve operational efficiency, and deliver innovative solutions to clients.
• Collaborate with research and development teams to pilot new technologies, conduct feasibility studies, and integrate cutting-edge capabilities into UAS operations.
• Champion a culture of innovation, experimentation, and learning within the UAS service line, driving continuous improvement and staying ahead of industry trends.

Job Requirements

Qualification (Minimum)  

• Diploma in a Technical Field GIS or any other relevant field
• Degree is desirable.
• Valid Remote Pilot License issued by ICAO contracting states and recognized by KCAA.
• Certificate of Good Conduct
• Shall not have had any conviction or administrative sanction under the Civil Aviation Act or the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority Regulations, which in the view of the Director, was sufficiently serious to render such person not fit to exercise any responsibilities in an aviation related position.
• Valid Driver’s License
• At least 6 months or 50 Hours in UAS Operations or related field.
• Any experience in aviation or relevant field is an added advantage.
• Must be Computer Proficient, with excellent knowledge in MS applications including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook.

Additional Details
Other Skills

• Knowledgeable about our product users and the aviation industry.
• User centric and enthusiastic about working with UAS.
• Initiative and energetic (able to hit the ground running with a task)
• Experimentation mindset.
• Team oriented.
• Leading Teams for Excellence.
• Holding Others Accountable.
• Humility.
• Organized and able to work within stipulated deadlines.
• Flexible.
• Detailed and results oriented.
• Must demonstrate effective people skills, communication skills and professionalism.
• Ability to work independently and with minimal supervision.