Head of Business Development and Operations

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Date: 13 Oct 2026

Location: Gatwick, GB

Salary: £85,000 up to £96,000 dependent upon experience

Contract Type: Permanent, Full-time

Security Level: BPSS

Location: Aviation House, Gatwick – average 2 days in the office per week

Visa Restrictions: This position does not offer visa sponsorship

Closing Date: 26th October 2026

Interview Date: 2nd - 6th November 2026 (Stage 1 - Virtual)

9th - 12th November 2026 (Stage 2 - In Person
- Aviation House Gatwick).

CAA International (CAAi) is the commercial and technical advisory arm of the UK Civil Aviation Authority (UK CAA) and a purpose-led Social Enterprise. Working internationally, we provide consultancy, training, e-examinations and digital solutions to aviation regulators, governments, development bodies and industry organisations. Through sharing expertise, building capability and supporting the adoption of international good practice, we help our customers improve organisational performance and contribute to higher aviation standards worldwide.

Reporting to the Managing Director and serving as a member of the CAAi Executive Committee and Senior Leadership Team, the Head of Business Development and Operations will lead the commercial growth and international development of CAAi's global portfolio. This is primarily a business development leadership role with responsibility for delivering the Business Development Pillar of the CAAi Strategy. The postholder will lead market growth, strategic partnerships, client account development and revenue generation across consultancy, training, e-examinations, digital services and new product development, translating strategic objectives into measurable business plans and commercial outcomes.

The successful candidate will own a significant international pipeline, lead major bids and commercial pursuits, and build long-term relationships with aviation authorities, governments, international organisations and industry leaders. Through this growth, the role will extend the reach and impact of CAAi's expertise internationally, supporting the UK CAA Strategic objective of developing global relationships and promoting world-leading aviation standards.

• Own and lead delivery of the Business Development Pillar of the CAAi Strategy, translating strategic objectives into measurable business plans, growth initiatives and commercial outcomes.
• Own a substantial commercial pipeline, including opportunity identification, qualification, forecasting, conversion and account growth.
• Ensure robust business development, client relationship and pipeline management information is maintained, providing accurate forecasting, performance insights and timely reporting to support Executive Team decision-making, financial planning, Board oversight and Parent Company governance requirements.
• Lead market analysis, customer insight and competitor intelligence activities to identify emerging opportunities, inform investment priorities and strengthen CAAi's competitive position.
• Develop and secure strategic relationships with aviation authorities, governments, international organisations, development agencies and industry stakeholders worldwide.
• Lead major bids, proposals, commercial negotiations and contract awards to secure profitable new business opportunities.
• Deliver annual revenue, profitability and growth targets across consultancy, training, e-examinations, digital services and technical advisory offerings.
• Build strategic partnerships, consortium arrangements and delivery networks that strengthen CAAi's market position and international reach.
• Lead and develop the Business Development, Marketing & Communications and New…