Director of Operations

Let your career take off at AAA!

Aruba Airport Authority N.V. (AAA) manages and operates Aeropuerto Internacional Reina Beatrix (AUA Airport). Being considered as one of the busiest airports in the Caribbean region, AUA Airport plays a prominent role in the Aruban economy as the principal tourism gateway. As the manager and operator of a leading airport, AAA undergoes continuous upgrades to maintain its position as one of the region’s most innovative airports. Here at AAA, we continue to build a solid company of which our people can be proud; where we collaborate as a team and create partnerships to add value to the Aruban community. Do you feel inspired by what we are creating and want to be a part of this? Then launch your rewarding career in aviation by joining our team as a:

Director of Operations

As Director of Operations, you will lead everything that keeps AUA Airport operating safely, securely, and at the highest standard. This is a senior leadership role with direct impact on the performance and resilience of one of the Caribbean's busiest airports. You will oversee a multidisciplinary team across Airside, Landside, Security, OCC, FBO, and Capacity Planning, driving operational excellence while upholding the highest standards in aviation safety and compliance. Reporting directly to the CEO and serving as a key member of the Leadership Team, you will shape the operational future of AAA.

Responsibilities include

  • Provide strategic and operational leadership across all airport operational domains, ensuring alignment with organizational objectives, regulatory requirements, and performance targets.
  • Drive a culture of safety, accountability, and continuous improvement across all operational teams.
  • Oversee the Airport Security Program (AVSEC) and ensure compliance with national and international aviation security standards.
  • Ensure the implementation and monitoring of the Safety Management System (SMS) and business continuity plans.
  • Lead operational response to disruptions, incidents, and emergencies, ensuring organizational resilience.
  • Manage and optimize operational budgets (OPEX and CAPEX), contributing to long-term business planning.
  • Monitor performance through KPIs and dashboards, reporting regularly to the CEO and Leadership Team.
  • Engage with airlines, ground handlers, regulators, and government agencies to maintain strong stakeholder relationships.

Requirements

  • Bachelor's degree in Aviation Management, Business Administration, Engineering, Public Administration, or a related field. Equivalent combinations of education, professional qualifications, training, and substantial senior operational leadership experience in airport, aviation, or other critical infrastructure environments will also be considered.
  • Minimum 10 years of experience in airport operations, aviation, or complex 24/7 regulated operational environments.
  • Minimum 5 years in a senior operational leadership role with responsibility for safety, security, regulatory compliance, and people management.
  • Proven ability to lead multidisciplinary teams and manage operational disruptions and emergencies.
  • Extensive knowledge of airport operations, aviation safety, security, and applicable regulatory frameworks (including ICAO SARPs).
  • Strong communication skills in English; Spanish, Dutch, and Papiamento are an advantage.

The following are considered a plus

  • Master's degree or equivalent executive leadership qualification.
  • Airport operational leadership experience.

Competencies

  • Leadership & people development
  • Operational decision-making under pressure
  • Stakeholder management and communication
  • Strategic thinking and execution
  • Change management
  • Analytical and data-driven decision-making
  • Integrity and professionalism

Unit: Operations.

In this position you will report to the Chief Executive Officer.

Reactions

If you recognize yourself in this profile and you are ready to start an exciting career, we invite you to apply. Please click “Apply” and upload your application letter with resume, diplomas and/or certifications, as well as a copy of your ID.

Last day to apply is June 28, 2026.

For questions regarding this vacancy and/or the selection procedure, please contact HR at 524-2424. A reference check, assessment and medical evaluation will be part of the selection procedure.

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