Chief Operating Officer

Chief of Operations (COO)

Location: Dubai, United Arab Emirates ( Relocation Required )

Industry: Advanced Aerospace & Manufacturing

Package: $350,000 – $500,000 USD base + 30–40% annual bonus + ESOP

All TAX free

Relocation: Full executive relocation package including paid housing, schools, business-class flights, and visa sponsorship (Around $100,000)

Type: Full-time | On-site | Permanent

Reports to: Chief Executive Officer (CEO)

About the Company

Our client is an advanced aerospace company developing the next generation of high-performance aircraft systems, integrating cutting-edge materials, propulsion, and automation technologies. With significant international investment and government support, the organisation is rapidly scaling from successful R&D and prototype programs into certified production and global deployment .

Headquartered in Dubai , the company is establishing a world-class engineering and manufacturing hub serving both commercial and defence markets. This is an exceptional opportunity to help shape the operational backbone of one of the most ambitious aerospace programs in the world.

The Opportunity

The Chief of Operations (COO) will lead the company’s full operational ecosystem, including manufacturing, supply chain, logistics, quality, and certification. Reporting directly to the CEO, this position will play a pivotal role in industrialising production, ensuring operational excellence, and delivering against aggressive growth and delivery milestones.

This is a hands-on executive role ideal for an operations leader experienced in scaling complex aerospace or advanced manufacturing programs from prototype to production.

Key Responsibilities

Operational Strategy & Execution

• Develop and deliver a global operations strategy encompassing manufacturing, supply chain, logistics, and quality.
• Lead the company’s transition from prototype programs to large-scale, certified production .
• Collaborate closely with engineering, program, and finance leaders to align budgets, capacity, and delivery goals.
• Define and monitor KPIs for cost, quality, and operational efficiency.

Manufacturing & Industrialisation

• Oversee the setup and operation of state-of-the-art production facilities in Dubai.
• Implement lean manufacturing and continuous improvement programs.
• Drive digital transformation through ERP/MRP, MES, and PLM systems.
• Build robust supply chain networks and negotiate global supplier partnerships.

Quality, Certification & Compliance

• Ensure adherence to EASA, FAA, and GCAA production and maintenance regulations (Part 21G/145).
• Establish and maintain comprehensive QMS and safety management systems.
• Manage certification activities and collaboration with regulatory authorities.

Leadership & Culture

• Build and mentor high-performing teams across manufacturing, supply chain, logistics, and quality.
• Embed a culture of excellence, accountability, and safety.
• Serve as a key member of the executive leadership team, contributing to long-term strategy and business direction.

Required Experience & Background

• 15+ years of experience in aerospace, advanced manufacturing, or defence , including 5+ years in senior operational leadership (COO, VP Operations, or Director of Manufacturing).
• Proven experience scaling industrial operations from R&D to certified production.
• Deep understanding of aerospace manufacturing, including composites, propulsion, avionics, and systems integration.
• Familiarity with EASA/FAA/GCAA/CASA certification frameworks.
• Expertise in lean operations, industrialisation, and process optimisation.
• Engineering or technical degree required (Aerospace, Mechanical, or Industrial); MBA desirable.

Please reach out to seb@profounbdpeople.com.au for more info