Chief Operating Officer (COO)

Wisconsin Aviation is seeking a strategic and results-driven Chief Operating Officer (COO) to oversee and optimize the day-to-day operations of our general aviation business. The COO will play a critical leadership role in ensuring operational excellence across all departments, including flight operations, maintenance, FBO services, compliance, and safety. This position is ideal for an aviation professional with strong business acumen, industry knowledge, and a passion for advancing general aviation services.

Key Responsibilities / Essential Duties

Operational Leadership

• Partner with leadership to oversee daily operations across flight services, maintenance, ground support, and FBO services.
• Develop and implement standard operating procedures (SOPs) to ensure consistency, safety, and efficiency.
• Manage resource allocation to maximize operational capacity and profitability.
• Provide oversight of capital expenditure projects.

Strategic Planning & Execution

• Work with the CEO and leadership team on business strategy, growth initiatives, and market expansion.
• Identify opportunities for operational improvements and lead change management efforts to enhance business performance.
• Establish and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure effectiveness and drive continuous improvement.

Regulatory Compliance & Safety

• Ensure compliance with FAA regulations, TSA requirements, and industry best practices.
• Foster a proactive safety culture through audits, training, and ongoing risk management.
• Oversee quality assurance programs and adherence to safety protocols.

Financial Management

• Contribute to budget development and implement cost-control strategies.
• Analyze operational data to support revenue growth and margin optimization.
• Participate in financial planning, forecasting, and capital expenditure decisions.

People & Culture

• Collaborate with HR to lead, mentor, and develop department heads and frontline staff.
• Promote a customer-first, safety-driven culture aligned with the company’s mission and values.
• Support HR initiatives in recruitment, retention, and performance management.
• Report unsafe, unhealthy, or adverse environmental conditions to management through the Safety Management Systems Manual hazard reporting program.
• In partnership with the Board of Directors, government officials, airport representatives, and other stakeholders, assist the President with company operations, business strategy, and growth initiatives.

The statements above are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed. They are not an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, and skills required.

Qualifications Required

• Bachelor’s degree in Aviation Management or related field (or equivalent experience).
• 8–10 years of business and/or financial management experience in a multifaceted aviation environment.
• Alignment with Wisconsin Aviation’s Mission, Vision, and Values.
• Extensive aviation administration experience with proven leadership in operational planning and execution.
• Strong background in business planning, data analysis, and performance metrics.
• Expertise in business aircraft operations.
• Familiarity with aviation and business software programs.
• SMS implementation experience preferred.
• Demonstrated record of operational excellence, team leadership, and strategic execution.
• Excellent communication, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Legal ability to work in the United States (citizen or permanent resident).
• No history of FAA regulation violations.
• Ability to obtain a SIDA (Secure Identification Display Area) badge through TSA clearance.

Physical Requirements

• Work is performed in airport, terminal, and office environments, with exposure to varying temperatures, aircraft noise, and active airfield conditions.
• Must be able to sit, stand, and walk for extended periods as required by daily operations.
• Occasional lifting or movement of materials may be necessary.
• Travel to multiple company locations and customer sites is expected.