Head of Flight Operations
Job Title: Head of Flight Operations
Salary: Competitive and Rewarding + Benefits
Hours: Standard Business
Reports to: Head of Sector - Geospatial
Location: Chester
Deadline for applications: 1st June 2022
Background
Our people are the difference!
Who they are, what they do and how they do it is why we’re the award-winning, industry-leading, thriving boldly global environmental consultancy we are today. We’re APEM Ltd and we’re expanding.
As a people-first business we’re accountable for our aspirations, actions, and what we get because of them. We believe inspiration and insight come from everywhere, so no matter history or choices in life, we will empower you to be your best, so we can be our best, together.
If you’re driven, ready to guide governments, shape private client projects across the planet and improve the natural world, then we want the whole you.

The WOW factor
When home became work, we learned that flexibility, understanding and balance allowed us all to move forward and grow together.
So no matter where you’re based, the hours you keep, or the toddlers you have to entertain, we’re committed to our ways of working (WOW) with each other so we can continue to be our best.
About the role
Our Flight Operations Team are a key component of our Data Operations function in our Geospatial Sector, working with our internal Aerial Survey teams and external providers to deliver high quality aerial surveys.
The Head of Flight Operations will ensure a stable, safe and efficient flight and ground operations programme, ensuring that all operations comply with the provisions of APEM Limited, including the company’s health and safety policy, operating philosophy and general policies. The Head of Flight Operations will also be responsible for overseeing our Flight Operations team in the development and endorsement of standard operating procedures and any checklists for the company Aerial Survey Task Specialists and be aware of the same disciplines for APEM’s contracted operators.
About you
The ideal candidate will be able to demonstrate a rapport of successful relationship building and the ability to work well under pressure, making sure that all tasks are complete to a high standard and within a timely manner. As Head of Flight Operations you will be expected to carry out tasks by taking the initiative to make logical decisions with the budget, health and safety protocols and the well-being of the team in mind. As well as, ensuring that all client needs are met to an excellent level.
Key responsibilities and accountabilities:
- Lead and manage our Flight Operations team to ensure high quality and efficient flight operations service is delivered in line with company protocols and deadlines, in addition to external relevant guidelines (e.g. health and safety) and legislation.
- Work with Head of Sector and other Principal roles across Data Operations Team to deliver Geospatial strategic plan.
- Manage relationships with external partners and any contractual agreements and services in relation to area (e.g. flight sub-contractors)
- Manage financial budgeting processes for Flight Operations area, as part of wider Data Operations/Geospatial budgeting process.
- Together with the Flight Operations Managers and Project Managers, define measures required to conduct surveys, monitor flight operations and report on any incidents and/or de-briefs that could improve safety and efficiency.
- Work alongside Flight Operations Managers to provide briefs, instructions, and guides to internal Aerial Task Specialists on their responsibilities and duties in general.
- Monitor the flight safety standards and evaluate and analyse company reports related to the safety and compliance audits of our contracted flight operators.
- Maintain an up to date understanding of our contracted flight operators Safety Management Systems (SMS), including risk assessments, relaying this understanding and communicating necessary updates to the wider Data Operations function.
- Maintain an up to date knowledge of flight planning procedures, airspace restrictions etc. and advise wider DOT area around best practice.
- Ability to evaluate new aircraft, systems and greener options related to carbon offset, more efficient forms of power (Electric/Hydrogen etc.) in light of future potential requirements.
- Provide daily line management support and guidance for a team of Flight Operations Managers.
- Maintain contact with any maintenance organisations associated with contracted operators. i.e NWMAS Ltd.
- Be able to talk knowledgeably about APEM’s general goals and objectives.

We recognise that everyone’s story is different.
The opportunities, experiences and challenges faced in life shape who we are today and we understand that these are the things that make us individual and unique. Embracing our differences means we’re able to approach what we do from every dimension. Inspiration and insight can come from anywhere, and no matter your history or choices in life, we empower our people to be their best, so we can be our best, together.
We welcome the whole you.
- Department
- Technical - Geospatial
- Locations
- Chester
- Remote status
- Hybrid Remote

About APEM Ltd
APEM is an aquatic science and remote sensing environmental consultancy, covering source to sea. We are committed to core scientific principles and offer our clients high quality scientific support.
Head of Flight Operations
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