Aviation Operations Safety Manager Job Vacancy in Nairobi, Kenya – Aviation and Logistics

Job Description

Position: Aviation Operations Safety Manager

Company: Kenya Airways

Location: Nairobi, Kenya

Experience: 8+ years in aviation safety and operations management

Education: Bachelor’s degree in Aviation Management, Aeronautical Engineering or related field

Employment Type: Full-time

Industry: Aviation and Logistics

Department: Safety and Compliance

Salary: SSP 250,000 – 350,000 per month

Vacancies:1

Company Overview

Kenya Airways, the flag carrier of Kenya, operates a modern fleet serving over 50 destinations across Africa, Europe, Asia and the Middle East. With a legacy of safety excellence, the airline is committed to delivering world‑class passenger experiences while maintaining the highest standards of operational integrity. As a leading employer in the region, Kenya Airways offers dynamic career pathways, robust training programmes and a culture that values innovation, diversity and continuous improvement. The airline’s strategic focus on safety, sustainability and digital transformation creates a fertile environment for professionals seeking to make a meaningful impact in the aviation sector. This role contributes directly to Kenya Airways’ mission of safe, reliable and efficient air transport, reinforcing its reputation as a premier carrier in Africa and a key player in the global aviation market.

Job Overview

The Aviation Operations Safety Manager will lead the development, implementation and continuous improvement of safety management systems (SMS) across all operational units. Reporting to the Director of Safety, the incumbent will collaborate with flight operations, maintenance, ground handling and regulatory bodies to ensure compliance with international safety standards such as ICAO, IATA and local Civil Aviation Authority regulations. This position is pivotal in fostering a proactive safety culture, conducting risk assessments, overseeing incident investigations and driving data‑driven safety initiatives. The role also supports Kenya Airways’ broader business objectives by aligning safety performance with operational efficiency, customer satisfaction and corporate responsibility. For more information about Kenya Airways and its commitment to safety, visit the official website https://kenyajobsearch.com.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, maintain and audit the airline’s Safety Management System in line with ICAO Annex 19 and IATA Operational Safety Audit (IOSA) requirements.
• Lead safety risk assessments, hazard identification and mitigation planning for all flight and ground operations.
• Oversee the investigation of safety incidents, accidents and near‑miss events, ensuring thorough root‑cause analysis and timely corrective actions.
• Collaborate with regulatory authorities, industry partners and internal stakeholders to ensure compliance with all applicable aviation safety regulations.
• Prepare and present safety performance reports to senior management, highlighting trends, key performance indicators and improvement opportunities.
• Design and deliver safety training programmes, workshops and briefings for pilots, crew, maintenance personnel and ground staff.
• Implement safety awareness campaigns and promote a culture of reporting and continuous improvement.
• Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of safety initiatives, adjusting strategies based on data analytics and industry best practices.
• Support the integration of new technologies, such as predictive analytics and digital safety tools, into the SMS framework.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for safety audits, inspections and certifications.

Required Skills

• In‑depth knowledge of ICAO, IATA and Kenyan Civil Aviation safety regulations.
• Proven experience in leading safety management systems within an airline or aviation‑related organization.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving abilities, with a data‑driven approach to risk management.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills for effective stakeholder engagement.
• Leadership experience with the ability to influence and motivate cross‑functional teams.
• Proficiency in safety management software and data analysis tools.
• Project management expertise, including planning, execution and monitoring of safety initiatives.
• High level of integrity, attention to detail and commitment to ethical standards.

Education

A Bachelor’s degree in Aviation Management, Aeronautical Engineering, Safety Management or a related discipline is required. Professional certifications such as Certified Safety Professional (CSP), International Aviation Safety Association (IASA) credentials or equivalent are highly desirable.

Experience

Minimum of eight (8) years of progressive experience in aviation safety, with at least three (3) years in a managerial or supervisory capacity. Experience with safety audits, incident investigations and regulatory compliance in a commercial airline environment is essential.

Salary

The successful candidate will receive a competitive monthly salary ranging from SSP 250,000 to SSP 350,000, commensurate with experience and qualifications. Additional performance‑based incentives may be offered.

Benefits

• Comprehensive health insurance covering medical, dental and vision.
• Retirement savings plan with employer contributions.
• Annual leave, sick leave and compassionate leave in line with Kenyan labour law.
• Employee travel privileges on Kenya Airways routes.
• Professional development allowance for certifications and conferences.
• Life and disability insurance.

Training

• Induction programme covering airline policies, safety culture and regulatory frameworks.
• Ongoing safety leadership workshops and advanced SMS training.
• Access to e‑learning platforms for continuous skill enhancement.
• Mentorship from senior safety executives and industry experts.

Working Environment

The role is based at Kenya Airways’ headquarters in Nairobi, offering a modern office environment equipped with state‑of‑the‑art technology and collaborative workspaces. The position requires occasional travel to operational bases, maintenance facilities and regulatory meetings across the region.

Application Process

Interested candidates should submit their updated CV and a cover letter outlining their relevant experience through the online portal. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews. For additional career resources and to explore other opportunities, visit https://www.namibiajobsearch.com/.

Equal Opportunity Statement

Kenya Airways is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees, regardless of gender, race, religion, disability or sexual orientation. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to any protected characteristic.