Head of Planning (Aviation Engineering)
Location: Bournemouth | Permanent | Salary: £65,000–£70,000 + Excellent Benefits
We are partnering with a leading global aviation services organisation to recruit a Head of Planning. This is a critical leadership role within a high-performing engineering environment, offering the opportunity to shape and optimise planning across complex aviation operations.
About the Role
As Head of Planning, you will lead and develop the planning function across Part 145, Part 21G and BCAR A8-23 organisations. You will be responsible for driving efficiency, ensuring regulatory compliance, and delivering predictable aircraft availability to support Flight Operations.
This is a highly visible role where your expertise will directly influence operational performance, maintenance delivery, and production planning across the business.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and implement standardised planning processes across maintenance and manufacturing operations
- Ensure compliance with Part 145, Part 21G and MOE requirements
- Lead workload scheduling and production planning across:
- Engine Overhaul
- Aerostructures
- EW Maintenance
- Deliver consistent output aligned to Time, Cost and Quality (TCQ) targets
- Collaborate closely with CAMO, Engineering Delivery Managers, and wider teams to maintain effective maintenance schedules
- Manage forward demand planning with Procurement and resolve supply chain challenges
- Support AOG (Aircraft on Ground) requirements and reactive maintenance
- Oversee fleet modification planning and configuration control (Part 21G)
- Drive continuous improvement across planning KPIs, reporting, and processes
- Provide SME input into system integration and planning tools (e.g. Aerotrac)
- Lead, coach, and develop the planning team while ensuring compliance with H&S and aviation regulations
About You
We’re looking for a strategic and hands-on planning leader with a strong aviation background.
You will have:
- Proven experience in aviation maintenance and production planning
- Strong knowledge of Part 145, Part 21G, and BCAR A8-23 regulatory frameworks
- Experience using planning tools such as MS Project and Excel
- A track record of delivering results in fast-paced, high-compliance environments
- Excellent leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills
What’s on Offer
- Competitive salary (£65,000–£70,000)
- Up to 12% matched pension contributions
- Bonus incentives
- Private medical insurance (discounted)
- Electric car scheme
- Tech vouchers
- Wellbeing programmes
- Ongoing professional development and career progression
About the Company
Our client is a globally recognised provider of advanced aviation services, supporting defence and allied organisations with specialist training, engineering, and operational capabilities. With a diverse fleet, cutting-edge technology, and highly experienced teams, they play a key role in delivering mission readiness across the UK, US, and NATO regions.
Diversity & Inclusion
Our client is committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce and welcomes applications from all backgrounds. As an Armed Forces-friendly organisation, they actively encourage applications from veterans, service leavers, and military families.
They are also committed to the Disability Confident scheme and will provide reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process where required.
Apply Now
If you’re ready to take ownership of a critical planning function and make a real impact within a leading aviation organisation, we’d love to hear from you.