OverviewWe are the UK's aviation and aerospace regulator and recognised as a leader in aviation safety, security, and consumer protection. Our work is varied, including setting and enforcing safety regulations, licensing airlines, protecting consumers, enabling technological innovation such as drones and spaceflight. We are forward-thinking, embrace innovation, adapt quickly to emerging risks, and support sustainable industry growth.The RoleThis is a key senior role within the ATOL and Airline Licensing Department responsible for the financial oversight and licensing of UK registered airlines and tour operators, and granting relevant permits to foreign carriers seeking to operate to the UK. The department also contributes to the financial oversight of UK space operators. In this role you will lead the Airline Financial Oversight & Licensing Team, ensuring robust financial and regulatory oversight of UK airlines, foreign carriers, and, where required, space operators.Further responsibilities include:Manage financial, complex, high‑risk cases and make potentially high‑value, high-impact licensing decisions, delivering clear, expert recommendations to senior leadership and the CAA Board.Oversee a rigorous financial risk management framework for UK operators (and where applicable, space operators), ensuring effective identification and mitigation of financial, licensing, and operational risks.Ensure all airline licensing activity meets the highest regulatory standards, delivering efficiency, consistency, and strong organisational impact.Play a key role in the departmental leadership team, driving annual priorities and developing a high‑performing team of financial and licensing specialists.Drive the evolution of airline financial oversight and licensing policy and guidance informed by industry trends, strengthening regulatory effectiveness and industry resilience.Drive continuous improvement across airline licensing operations, motivating teams and developing talent to deliver high‑quality outcomes.Build strong relationships with senior leaders across regulated entities, international carriers, Government, and aviation organisations, representing the CAA externally and collaborating effectively across internal teams.What we Need from YouStrategic, forward-thinking leadership style supported by a strong work ethic and collaborative mindset.Proven ability to lead and develop teams while delivering high‑quality outcomes.Strong analytical and judgement skills to shape high-quality financial, business, and licensing decisions.Skilled in senior‑level stakeholder engagement across industry, Government, and aviation bodies.A naturally curious mindset with a strong commitment to continuous learning.Ability to comprehend and manage complex cases, ask probing questions and deliver effective solutions.Highly organized with the ability to thrive under pressure.Ability to handle multiple cases and adapt to shifting priorities.ACA/ACCA (or equivalent), corporate finance, financial restructuring or as qualified by experience.Knowledge of UK airline and travel company operations and regulatory environment.Solid understanding of relevant policy and regulatory frameworks.This is an exciting opportunity for someone with solid financial expertise, a passion for the fast‑moving aviation sector, and a desire to make a real and lasting impact.Additional InformationFor many appointments within the CAA, these roles require access to operationally sensitive infrastructure and/or Nationally Protected information. Post holders must undergo National Security Vetting and achieve the appropriate level of clearance. To be vetted you must have the right to work in the UK so that meaningful checks can be undertaken.If you do not meet these requirements, we may not be able to accept your application.The CAA values high ethical standards and personal integrity. If invited for interview you will be asked to complete a declaration of interest.Relocation & PropertyThe CAA will relocate from Aviation House (our Gatwick Office) to new premises in a few years. The move is driven by strategic, operational, and environmental considerations. We will be moving to a new local home, up to a 15‑mile radius of Aviation House, to minimise disruption for colleagues and customers. We are working to understand requirements in our new office before starting property searches and expect to move no earlier than 2028.Inclusive RecruitmentWe are passionate about diversity and ensuring all are included at the CAA. We are an equal opportunity employer and actively encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds. As a member of the Disability Confident scheme, applicants who meet the minimum criteria for a role will be guaranteed an interview. We use fair and inclusive selection approaches to hire the best person for the job based on merit alone. If you require an adjustment for any reason, please let us know.Use of Artificial Intelligence by candidates in the CAA recruitment processWe recognise that many candidates find Artificial Intelligence useful to support applications; all examples and statements provided must be truthful, factually accurate, and taken directly from your own experience. Where plagiarism has been identified, applications may be rejected on that basis.Working With UsWe are on a journey towards being increasingly adaptable and collaborate in cross-functional teams. This approach ensures continuous learning and opportunities to develop and grow your career with us. We have embraced hybrid working and offer flexible patterns, with open conversations about what works for you. We know where and when we work is important for work‑life balance.We offer benefits such as flexible working arrangements, a free onsite gym at Gatwick, discounted gym membership for London, 28 days annual leave, a 5‑day leave purchase scheme, a generous pension, and more.Our ValuesDo The Right Thing, Never Stop Learning, Build Collaborative Relationships, Respect Everyone. For more information please click here.Closing Date and InterviewClosing Date: 13th April 2026Interview Date: w/c 20th and 27th April 2026Note: We reserve the right to close this vacancy early if we receive sufficient applications. No recruitment agencies please. #J-18808-Ljbffr