General Manager GATS

Overview

Step into an exciting leadership role at the heart of a dynamic aviation partnership! As the driving force behind the GATS Joint Venture between Cargolux Airlines and Atlas Air, you’ll shape strategy, steer performance, and champion strong governance across a high-impact global operation. From procurement to repair and distribution, you’ll lead the full lifecycle of GATS pool components, delivering operational excellence, top-tier service, and outstanding financial results.

Key Responsibilities

Operational Leadership & Performance

• Lead the GATS pool operations, including supply chain, logistics, repair management, and partner support
• Ensure delivery of agreed service levels, including AOG response and operational performance
• Maintain high standards of quality, traceability, and airworthiness

Stakeholder & Team Leadership

• Act as the primary interface to the JV Board of Directors
• Lead and develop the GATS operations and finance team

Strategy & Business Development

• Develop and execute business plans aligned with partner objectives
• Identify and drive growth opportunities, including negotiation and management of pooling agreements with customers

Asset & Vendor Management

• Optimize asset management, pool sizing, and inventory strategy based on reliability, repair cycles, and obsolescence risks
• Manage repair vendor performance and contractual agreements
• Collaborate with partner engineering teams to improve component reliability

Governance, Risk & Compliance

• Ensure compliance with JV agreements, governance frameworks, and applicable EASA and FAA regulations
• Identify and mitigate technical, financial, and contractual risks

Financial Management

• Oversee P&L, budgeting, and overall financial performance

Essential Requirements

• Master’s degree in Engineering, Supply Chain, Business Administration, or a related field 
• Minimum 7 years of experience in procurement, sourcing, or vendor management (experience in Maintenance & Engineering is an advantage). Aviation, pooling, or MRO experience are a distinct advantage.
• Proven experience in a managerial role with people management responsibilities 
• Experience in high-value contract negotiations and procurement best practices is preferred 
• Ability to balance short-term operational priorities with long-term strategic objectives 
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to navigate complexity 
• Excellent leadership and conflict resolution skills 
• Strong written and verbal communication skills in English

Working Conditions

• Permanent, full-time position based at the Cargolux Maintenance Center in Luxembourg 
• Flexible working hours may be required 
• Occasional travel may be required 
• A certificate of good conduct will be required upon selection