Director of Aviation

At Rite-Hite, your work makes an impact. As the global leader in loading dock and door equipment, we design and deliver solutions that keep our customers safe, secure, and productive. Here, you’ll find innovation, stability, and the chance to grow your career as part of a team that’s always looking ahead. PURPOSE and SCOPE The Director of Aviation is a senior leadership role responsible for overseeing all aspects of the company’s aviation operations while also serving as a flying director who actively participates in flight operations as business needs require. This includes strategic planning, flight operations, regulatory compliance, personnel management, and financial oversight. The role ensures that aviation services align with corporate goals, meet regulatory standards, and deliver exceptional service to internal and external stakeholders. This role reports to a member of the Executive Leadership team, currently the Chief Financial Officer. ESSENTIAL DUTIES and RESPONSIBILITIES • People Leadership • Leads and fosters a culture of safety, accountability, and continuous improvement. • Lead and manage the aviation department (8-12 people depending on required staffing), including pilots, maintenance personnel, and support staff. • Plans and assigns training, duties, and flight schedules to ensure operational readiness and compliance necessary to meet business needs. • Mentor and develop team members to ensure high performance, continuous improvement and succession planning. • Results and Financial Accountability • Develops and manages the aviation department’s annual budget, and multi year strategic plan, including required investments as agreed with executive supervisor. • Proactively and flexibly plans department staffing and aircraft utilization to meet business requirements. • Ensure cost-effective operations while maintaining the highest standards of safety and service. • Strategy & Risk Management • Advise ownership and senior leadership on aircraft selection, utilization, and long-term aviation strategy as required and or requested. • Coordinate directly with the FAA on matters such as Operations Specifications and Letters of Authorization. • Proactively identify and mitigate operational risks, ensuring full compliance with FAA and international aviation regulations, ensures compliance with relevant safety and regulatory requirements. • Thought Leadership and Innovation • Lead proactive initiatives to modernize aviation operations through technology and process innovation. • Solves complex operational challenges where standard solutions may not apply. • Translates corporate strategy into actionable aviation plans and guide their execution. • Collaboration & Communication • Serves as the primary liaison between the aviation department and senior leadership, including the company owners and executive leadership. • Able to articulate department needs to leadership in a simple and concise manner. • Coordinates with airport authorities to ensure seamless operations and compliance. • Represents the company in negotiations with vendors, regulatory agencies, and industry partners. • Operates as a flying director, maintaining required certifications and actively supporting flight operations as needed to meet business requirements. EDUCATION and EXPERIENCE • Bachelor’s degree in Aviation Management, Aeronautical Science, or related field (Master’s preferred). • Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certificate required. • Minimum 15 years of aviation experience, including 5+ years in a leadership role. Corporate or military aviation experience preferred. • Proven track record in managing complex aviation operations and leading high-performing teams. • Strong knowledge of FAA regulations, safety management systems, and aviation best practices. • Must be able to meet flexible work schedule expectations, including on-call availability, irregular hours, and travel as needed to support flight operations and business needs. • Excellent communication, strategic thinking, and decision-making skills What We Offer At Rite-Hite, we take care of our people – because when you’re supported, you can do your best work. Our benefits are designed to support your health, your future and your life outside of work: • Health & Well-being: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, plus life and disability insurance. A robust well-being program with an opportunity to receive an extra day off and more. • Financial Security: A strong retirement savings program with 401(k), company match, and profit sharing. • Time for You: Paid holidays, vacation time, and personal/sick days each year. Join us and build a career where you’re supported – at work and beyond. Rite-Hite is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We consider all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic under federal, state, or local law. In accordance with VEVRAA, we are committed to providing equal employment opportunities for protected veterans. We are also committed to maintaining a drug-free workplace for the safety of our employees and customers.