Chief Operations Officer
ACSA · Gauteng
We are seeking an accomplished operational leader to direct the safe, secure and efficient running of Airports Company South Africa’s airport network. Are you ready to build a resilient, future-ready operating model that protects ACSA’s licence to operate and delivers operational excellence in a dynamic aviation environment?
Key Performance Output
In this pivotal leadership role, reporting to the Chief Executive Officer, the successful individual will provide strategic leadership in building a resilient, future-ready operating model that enables the company to respond effectively to a dynamic aviation environment, emerging risks, changing customer expectations and evolving regulatory requirements, focusing on the following:
- 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; and
- 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.
Technical Skills and Experience
The following skills and experience or the equivalent of such will be required:
- A relevant Honours Degree (NQF Level 8) in built environment, airport management, general management, engineering, finance, infrastructure development or equivalent is essential;
- A Master of Business Administration (MBA), Master of Business Leadership (MBL) or equivalent master’s degree (NQF Level 9) is advantageous;
- 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 i.e. 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; and
- Strong commercial and strategic business management ability, and a good understanding of current and emerging technologies.
Competencies
The ideal individual 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.
Application and Enquiries
Lenohlahla Consulting has been retained with an exclusive mandate for this recruitment assignment.
Email: info@lenohlahla.co.za or faith@lenohlahla.co.za
Closing Date: 3 November 2026
Positions will be filled in line with Airports Company South Africa value, transformation and Employment Equity Policy and Plan, including people living with disabilities.
Should you not hear from us within 30 days of your application, consider your application unsuccessful.
Shortlisted candidates will be required to provide proof of their qualifications, NQF level and credits, and must be eligible for Top Security Clearance within 3 months of appointment.
Chief Operations Officer – Paterson Grade F1