Head of Planning (Aviation Engineering)

Location: Bournemouth | Permanent | Salary: £65,000-£70,000 + Excellent Benefits

We are partnering with a leading global aviation services organisation to recruit a Head of Planning. This is a critical leadership role within a high-performing engineering environment, offering the opportunity to shape and optimise planning across complex aviation operations.

About the Role

As Head of Planning, you will lead and develop the planning function across Part 145, Part 21G and BCAR A8-23 organisations. You will be responsible for driving efficiency, ensuring regulatory compliance, and delivering predictable aircraft availability to support Flight Operations.

This is a highly visible role where your expertise will directly influence operational performance, maintenance delivery, and production planning across the business.

Key Responsibilities

Develop and implement standardised planning processes across maintenance and manufacturing operations
Ensure compliance with Part 145, Part 21G and MOE requirements
Lead workload scheduling and production planning across:
Engine Overhaul
Aerostructures
EW Maintenance
Deliver consistent output aligned to Time, Cost and Quality (TCQ) targets
Collaborate closely with CAMO, Engineering Delivery Managers, and wider teams to maintain effective maintenance schedules
Manage forward demand planning with Procurement and resolve supply chain challenges
Support AOG (Aircraft on Ground) requirements and reactive maintenance
Oversee fleet modification planning and configuration control (Part 21G)
Drive continuous improvement across planning KPIs, reporting, and processes
Provide SME input into system integration and planning tools (e.g. Aerotrac)
Lead, coach, and develop the planning team while ensuring compliance with H&S and aviation regulations

About You

We're looking for a strategic and hands-on planning leader with a strong aviation background.

You will have:

Proven experience in aviation maintenance and production planning
Strong knowledge of Part 145, Part 21G, and BCAR A8-23 regulatory frameworks
Experience using planning tools such as MS Project and Excel
A track record of delivering results in fast-paced, high-compliance environments
Excellent leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills

What's on Offer

Competitive salary (£65,000-£70,000)
Up to 12% matched pension contributions
Bonus incentives
Private medical insurance (discounted)
Electric car scheme
Tech vouchers
Wellbeing programmes
Ongoing professional development and career progression

About the Company

Our client is a globally recognised provider of advanced aviation services, supporting defence and allied organisations with specialist training, engineering, and operational capabilities. With a diverse fleet, cutting-edge technology, and highly experienced teams, they play a key role in delivering mission readiness across the UK, US, and NATO regions.

Diversity & Inclusion

Our client is committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce and welcomes applications from all backgrounds. As an Armed Forces-friendly organisation, they actively encourage applications from veterans, service leavers, and military families.

They are also committed to the Disability Confident scheme and will provide reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process where required.

Apply Now

If you're ready to take ownership of a critical planning function and make a real impact within a leading aviation organisation, we'd love to hear from you.

DCS Recruitment and all associated companies are committed to creating a working environment where diversity is celebrated and everyone is treated fairly, regardless of gender, gender identity, disability, ethnic origin, religion or belief, sexual orientation, marital or transgender status, age, or nationality