We are seeking an experienced and highly credible Head of Safety to join our leadership team. This is a key role which reports to the CEO and the Board and is responsible for ensuring regulatory compliance, driving safety performance, and embedding a strong, just safety culture across the organisation.
With accountability for the effectiveness of the Safety Management System (SMS), Quality Assurance (QA), and Work Health & Safety (WHS) frameworks. You will play a critical role in safeguarding the organisation's people, operations, and reputation while ensuring full compliance with Civil Aviation Safety Regulations, the Civil Aviation Act, and CASA requirements and other regulatory requirements.
This is an exciting opportunity to shape safety outcomes and embed a high-performing, just safety culture.
The role can be based in either Sydney or Melbourne.
The Role
Reporting directly to the CEO and leading a team of 5, you will:
Set and lead our safety strategy, aligning with broader business objectives
Act as the principal safety advisor to the CEO and Board
Ensure the integrity, maturity, and continuous improvement of the Safety Management System (SMS)
Provide oversight of risk, assurance, compliance, and safety governance frameworks
Ensure all incident and accident investigations have robust outcomes and organisational learnings
Maintain strong and constructive relationships with CASA and regulatory stakeholders
Oversee operational safety assurance, including audit programs and Flight Data Analysis (FDAP)
Ensure our organisational readiness through effective emergency response planning and leadership
Build, lead, and inspire a high-performing, geographically dispersed safety function
Champion a transparent, just culture that drives reporting, accountability, and continuous improvement
The Person
You are an influential and strategically minded safety leader with a strong track record in aviation. Prior experience as a Head of Safety or equivalent role within the aviation industry is essential for this position.
You will bring:
Extensive expertise in aviation safety, SMS, and regulatory compliance frameworks
Demonstrated success operating at executive and Board level, with the ability to influence and challenge constructively
Experience in risk management, assurance, and incident investigation
Strong commercial acumen, with the ability to balance safety priorities and operational performance
A data-driven mindset, with the ability to translate insights into meaningful safety outcomes
Proven leadership capability, including building and leading high-performing teams
A minimum of 5+ years' aviation safety experience
Qualifications
Tertiary qualifications in Aviation, Safety Management, or a related discipline
Formal training in safety investigation and auditing
Strong working knowledge of CASA and aviation regulatory requirements
Why Join Us?
🎓 Education support – up to 50% contribution to further study
💼 Ongoing mentorship from highly experienced aviation professionals
💪 $1,500 annual wellness benefit – covering gym, fitness, health, and whole lot more!
🎉 Regular staff events – BBQs, cake days, family functions
🌏 Get involved in ESG, diversity & inclusion, and charity initiatives
✈️ Staff perks – parking options, discounts, bonuses, and matched charity donations of your choice.
Tasman Cargo Airlines is an Equal Opportunities Employer.
We value the unique perspectives and experiences that each individual brings to our team. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds, identities, and abilities. If you require any support or specific accommodations throughout the recruitment process, or at any stage of your employment, please let us know. We're committed to creating a workplace where you can thrive and be your best.
If you are passionate about this role and believe you have what it takes, we encourage you to apply and we would love to hear from you.
Employer questions
Your application will include the following questions:
Which of the following statements best describes your right to work in Australia?
How many years' experience do you have as a Head of Safety?
Have you completed a qualification in Work Health & Safety?
Have you completed a qualification in management?
How many years' experience do you have in the aviation industry?
What's your expected annual base salary?