Chief Operations Officer

In brief

**Overview** This is a Chief Operations Officer role at Airports Company South Africa (ACSA). The position seeks an accomplished operational leader to direct the safe, secure, and efficient running of ACSA’s airport network. Reporting to the Chief Executive Officer, the successful candidate will provide strategic leadership to build a resilient, future-ready operating model, ensuring operational excellence in a dynamic aviation environment and protecting ACSA’s licence to operate. **What you will do** * Translate organisational goals into a clear operational strategy and business plans, and drive operational performance within the agreed strategic framework. * Direct and oversee airport operations across the ACSA network to ensure the safe, secure, and efficient movement of passengers and cargo, advancing national connectivity and supporting economic growth. * Direct the planning, commissioning, development, and management of ACSA’s asset portfolio in line with business strategy and priorities. * Direct a culture of operational compliance, safety, security, and ethical conduct that protects ACSA’s licence to operate and upholds stakeholder confidence. * Lead ACSA’s digital transformation, including smart airports technologies, cyber security and automation, and direct the IT infrastructure and solutions that support business processes and decision-making. * Drive the development and implementation of the Permission in line with regulatory requirements. * Lead innovation, growth and sustainability strategies, including Smart Airports and Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) programmes, and champion the holistic transformation strategy across enterprise-wide programmes. * Develop and manage operational, capex and labour budgets, and direct resources for the efficient delivery of operational targets. * Lead regulatory safety and security compliance and manage ACSA’s risk exposure through effective risk control measures. * Provide direction and nurture the development of leaders to ensure sustainable succession. * Build sound relationships with industry partners, government forums and other stakeholders, positioning ACSA as a key player in the local, national and international aviation and tourism industries. **Requirements (from the original advert)** * A relevant Honours Degree NQF Level 8 in built environment, airport management, general management, engineering, finance, infrastructure development or equivalent is essential. * A total of 15 years’ experience, including 10 years’ management experience in airport management, operations or general management, and 5 years’ experience at executive management level is essential. * Knowledge of South African and international legislation, South African Civil Aviation Authority and aviation transportation sector regulations, and local and global aviation industry standards (e.g., ICAO and ACI). * Knowledge of corporate governance King V and national and international ISO standards. * Knowledge of engineering, contract management, large infrastructure projects management and large capital expenditure management. * Strong commercial and strategic business management ability, and a good understanding of current and emerging technologies. **Who should apply** The ideal candidate is a strategic thinker with strong business acumen and conceptual thinking ability, and a respected leader who builds relationships and networks across the industry. The individual must be able to negotiate, persuade and influence at the highest levels, and must display sound decision making and confident public speaking. A demonstrable affinity for ethics and integrity is essential. **Deadline** 3 November 2026 **Reference** Original posting: https://www.myjobmag.co.za/job/chief-operations-officer-airports-company-south-africa Source: myjobmag

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At a glance

• At least 5 years of experience.

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