Chief Pilot

Meritus Talent are working with a well-established UK helicopter operator to recruit an experienced Chief Pilot that will also help with Flight Operations to lead their flight operations.

This is a key senior leadership position within the AOC, taking responsibility for flying standards, operational delivery, crew management and regulatory compliance across a varied multi-type helicopter operation.

You'll work closely with senior management, flight crews, customers and the UK CAA, making sure operations remain safe, compliant and commercially effective while continuing to maintain a high standard of service.

What you'll be doing

• Leading day-to-day flight operations and supervising flight crew and flying standards
• Ensuring operations remain compliant with UK CAA requirements, the AOC and Operations Manual
• Driving a strong safety culture and high professional standards across the operation
• Managing and developing pilots, including recruitment, induction, standardisation and operational readiness
• Working closely with Safety, Compliance and Training teams
• Acting as a key operational contact for the UK CAA
• Supporting CAA audits, inspections, regulatory visits and the closure of any findings
• Supporting the development of operational manuals, procedures, approvals and regulatory submissions
• Building strong relationships with customers and ensuring their requirements are translated into safe and effective operations

What we're looking for

We're looking for someone with strong rotary-wing experience who understands both the flying and operational leadership side of running a UK AOC.

Ideally, you'll bring:

• Extensive commercial helicopter operational experience
• Previous Chief Pilot, Flight Operations or wider AOC management/postholder experience
• Strong knowledge of UK CAA, AOC and Air Operations requirements
• Experience dealing directly with regulators, audits and compliance processes
• Strong leadership and crew management skills
• A professional, commercially aware and customer-focused approach
• Experience on AW139, AW169, H145 and/or AW109
• Previous HEMS and/or charter experience

Essential requirements

• UK CAA CPL(H) or ATPL(H)
• Valid Class 1 Medical
• Right to live and work in the UK
• Able to hold the position of Nominated Person Flight Operations Manager within a UK AOC