We’re more than aviation experts, we’re pioneers. We challenge what’s possible. From breaking the sound barrier to advanced tiltrotor systems. Today, Bell is shaping the future of aviation through specialized engineering. And we want you.

This role is located in Ozark, Alabama.

Director, Flight Ops & Deputy General Manager (GM)

Bell is looking for a Director, Flight Ops & Deputy GM in our location in Ozark, Alabama. You will provide senior leadership for all flight training activities in support of Flight School Next. This role is responsible for the development of instructor pilots and the successful training of Army aviators across flight, simulator, and academic environments.

As Deputy General Manager, this position supports enterprise level coordination across training, maintenance, logistics, and subcontractor partners to ensure mission readiness, safety, and efficient execution of all aviation training operations. This role requires maintaining credibility with senior Army leaders at Fort Rucker and directly interfacing with the customer to ensure alignment with Army training objectives and modernization initiatives, while maintaining the Bell culture.  

What you will be doing as a Director, Flight Ops & Deputy General Manager (GM):

Flight Training Leadership

• Lead instructor pilot development and oversee execution of all flight training programs.

• Partner with the Bell Training Academy on best practices for training on Bell 505.

• Lead the Train the Trainer program and manage subcontractor flight operations performance and standards to ensure it meets operational standards.

• Direct curriculum development and maintain compliance with Army aviation, FAA, and applicable regulatory standards.

• Ensure safety, standardization, curriculum accuracy, and regulatory compliance.

• Monitor training throughput, resource planning, and student progression.

• Foster a professional, mission‑focused training culture rooted in safety and performance.

• Evaluate training outcomes and implement improvements

Program Execution

• Serve as a senior interface with Army aviation leadership and represent the organization in customer engagements as it relates to the training program.

• Drive continuous improvement initiatives focused on training effectiveness, standardization, resource efficiency, and overall mission performance.

• Identify operational risks, develop mitigation plans, and ensure issues are escalated and resolved quickly.

• Develop annual and long-term manpower and budget forecasts for the Flight training department

• Act as General Manager when delegated.

• Assist in ensuring readiness and operational effectiveness of Army flight training operations.

• Provide oversight of the instructor pilot performance.

Skills You Bring To this Role

• Bachelor’s degree in aviation, engineering, business administration, or a related field (master’s degree preferred).

• Extensive experience in Army flight training, aviation operations, or a related area required.

• Experience in Program Management preferred.

• 10 years as an instructor pilot

• Proven leadership experience in managing large teams and complex operations.

• In-depth knowledge of aviation regulations, safety standards, and training methodologies required.

• Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills.

• Experience with advanced flight simulation technologies.

• Experience with managing third-party service-providers through a DoD contract preferred.

• Familiarity with international aviation standards and practices preferred.

• Ability to adapt to a fast-paced and dynamic environment.

• Demonstrated experience working with senior government leaders or corporate executives.

• Minimum 2,500 flight hours, 1,000 hours as a flight instructor.

• Helicopter CFI & CFII ratings preferred.

• Ability to maintain flight currency and proficiency across advanced flight designations.

• Knowledge of DoW process and experience dealing with relevant U.S. Government regulations is preferred.

• Proficiency with Microsoft Office (word, Excel, Power Point, & MS Outlook), and database applications

• Excellent oral and written communication skills 

What we offer in return

• 80 hours of Personal Time Off (PTO)

• 120 hours Vacation time

• 12-13 paid holidays per year

• 6 weeks parental leave

• Tuition reimbursement

• Competitive salary

• Comprehensive health insurance

• And so much more 

It’s time to make your mark on the future of aviation. Join us on this mission, and let’s make history together.