Program Director

Position Information

Position: Program Director - Aviation Safety Programs
Location: Montreal
Status: Full-time
Duration: Permanent
Deadline: Open until filled

Flight Safety Foundation is the world's leading independent, nonprofit advocate for aviation safety. Since 1945, the Foundation has been at the forefront of identifying emerging risks, influencing global policy, and advancing practical solutions to improve safety across every sector of aviation-from commercial airlines to specialized operations. With a global network of members and partners, FSF brings together industry, regulators, and experts to drive innovation, foster collaboration, and ensure that safety remains the cornerstone of aviation growth. Through its trusted research, standards development, and international programs, the Foundation delivers the insight, tools, and leadership needed to meet the safety challenges of today and tomorrow.

Position Overview

The Program Director - Aviation Safety Programs will lead the design and delivery of specialized operational safety initiatives within the Foundation. These initiatives support performance-based safety outcomes and field-level implementation of safety management principles across a diverse range of operational environments.

The incumbent will collaborate with FSF leadership, international partners, and advisory committees to drive continuous improvement in safety outcomes. Responsibilities include managing projects, supporting standard and framework development, engaging stakeholders, and contributing to the Foundation's global influence on aviation safety practices.

Key Responsibilities

Lead the development and implementation of international aviation safety programs aligned with the Foundation's strategic plan.
Support the evolution and application of safety management system concepts in a variety of operational contexts.
Collaborate with internal teams and external stakeholders to align safety program objectives with industry needs and global priorities.
Facilitate international stakeholder engagement, including industry partners, regulators, service providers, and safety organizations.
Organize and contribute to technical working groups, roundtables, and regional forums to advance shared safety goals.
Analyze operational trends, performance data, and frontline feedback to inform program direction and improvement.
Develop and maintain supporting documentation, training materials, and communications.
Represent the Foundation at global aviation safety events and meetings.

Qualifications and Experience

Education

A four-year university degree is required; an advanced degree in aviation safety, operations, engineering, or public policy is preferred.

Professional Experience - Required

Min of 10-15 years of experience in aviation safety, flight operations, or risk management.
Experience in fixed wing, helicopter or drone flight operations is desired.
Proven ability to support the development and implementation of safety frameworks and operational standards.
Background in sectors involving complex or high-risk operations (e.g., remote, resource sector, or special mission aviation).
Experience contributing to the development or implementation of industry safety frameworks or standards.
Knowledge of international aviation organizations and regulatory environments.
Experience with international safety oversight or engagement involving civil aviation authorities, operators, or service providers.
Demonstrated skill in applying data-driven methods to identify operational risks and develop practical mitigation strategies.
Experience assisting both large and small organizations in applying safety management principles in complex operational environments.
Strong familiarity with safety management systems and performance-based safety practices.
Demonstrated ability to lead multi-stakeholder initiatives and international collaborations.
Excellent verbal, written, and presentation skills.

Language Skills

Required : Fluent in English (reading, writing, speaking);
Proficiency in additional languages (especially French or Spanish) is an asset.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $220,000.00-$245,000.00 per year

Benefits:
Dental care
Extended health care
Paid time off
Vision care
Work from home

Education:
Bachelor's Degree (required)

Experience:
aviation safety: 10 years (required)
flight operations: 5 years (preferred)
risk management: 5 years (preferred)
fixed wing, helicopter or drone flight operations : 3 years (preferred)
complex or high-risk operations (remote, resource sector): 5 years (preferred)
implementation of industry safety frameworks: 3 years (preferred)
Knowledge of international aviation organizations : 5 years (preferred)
engagement involving civil aviation authorities: 3 years (preferred)
applying data-driven methods to identify operational risks : 3 years (preferred)
safety management : 5 years (preferred)
international collaborations: 5 years (preferred)

Language:
English (required)
French (preferred)

Willingness to travel:
50% (preferred)

Work Location: Hybrid remote in Montréal, QC H2Y 2M4