Executive Director of Flight Training Operations

Liberty University is a renowned Christian higher education institution committed to equipping, mentoring, and sending champions for Christ into various professional fields. With a strong emphasis on integrating faith and learning, the university strives to foster an environment where students receive both academic excellence and spiritual growth. Among its many specialized academic units, the School of Aeronautics stands out as a leader dedicated to training future professionals in the aerospace industry. The School offers comprehensive flight training programs that adhere to stringent Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations and aims to develop industry-ready graduates equipped with the necessary knowledge and practical skills to excel in aviation careers.

The Executive Director of Flight Training Operations is a pivotal executive leadership position within the School of Aeronautics. This role embodies strategic leadership, operational oversight, and regulatory compliance management for all flight training activities. Managing more than 45 aircraft valued at over $19 million as part of a $25 million operational budget, the Executive Director ensures that resources are efficiently allocated to meet enrollment demands and program growth objectives. This position requires a dynamic leader capable of guiding multifaceted teams and directing the lifecycle planning of training assets to deliver a safe, efficient, and high-quality student training experience.

In this full-time, on-site role, the Executive Director is responsible for planning, organizing, and managing the execution of flight training in compliance with FAA regulations under 14 CFR Parts 61, 91, and 141. The role demands close collaboration with senior leadership to continuously improve training performance, enhance student outcomes, and increase operational efficiency. The Executive Director leads a team of directors who oversee instructor standardization, training quality assurance, and student evaluation processes. This leadership ensures that students are well-prepared to achieve their FAA certifications as part of their academic journey. Moreover, the position plays a crucial role in fostering positive relationships with regulatory agencies like the FAA, TSA, and Veterans Affairs, as well as industry partners and community collaborators such as Freedom Aviation and Lynchburg Regional Airport.

The Executive Director also champions engagement by supporting recruitment, outreach activities, and high-profile events that align with both the strategic priorities of the School and the broader mission of Liberty University. This role requires adherence to university policies, exemplary representation of the institution, and a commitment to embracing and promoting the university's Christian mission. Compensation for this role ranges from $100,000 to $135,000 annually, depending on qualifications, experience, and market conditions, and includes eligibility for comprehensive benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and tuition assistance. Liberty University is an Equal Opportunity Employer, dedicated to providing nondiscriminatory employment practices in accordance with all relevant laws and regulations.