Oaklands Global is pleased to invite expressions of interest for a highly confidential and senior appointment with one of our most established aviation clients in the Middle East. Having been exclusively retained, we are leading the search for a Director of Security (DOS), a pivotal leadership position tasked with defining, implementing, and evolving the organisation’s global aviation security (AVSEC) strategy. This role holds overarching responsibility for ensuring full alignment and compliance with the National Aviation Security Programme (NASCP), ICAO Annex 17, and all relevant international aviation security standards.

The successful candidate will combine deep operational expertise with strategic intelligence capability, safeguarding people, assets, and operations while enabling safe expansion into new and emerging markets worldwide.

As Director of Security, you will oversee all aspects of aviation security across the business. You will lead the redesign and implementation of a robust, scalable, and compliant global security framework, while also driving proactive intelligence gathering and risk analysis to support international operations.

This role is ideal for a dynamic and strategic leader who thrives in complex environments and understands the intersection of security, geopolitics, and commercial aviation.

Key Responsibilities

• Regulatory Compliance & Core AVSEC Functions
• Ensure full compliance with NASCP, ICAO Annex 17, and other global AVSEC regulations.
• Develop, maintain, and oversee the company’s Aviation Security Program (ASP).
• Conduct global audits, inspections, and risk assessments.
• Oversee AVSEC training and certification for all relevant personnel.
• Support the Safety Manager with incident investigation and security event reporting.
• Ensure global implementation of access control, screening, and aircraft protection measures.
• Strategic Security & Intelligence
• Lead intelligence gathering and analysis on global geopolitical, terrorism, and security risks - particularly across MENA and Africa.
• Produce threat assessments and brief senior leadership on emerging risks and regional dynamics.
• Advise on safe operations, new routes, and base expansions in high-risk regions.
• Build and maintain intelligence networks and represent the company at IATA, ICAO, and international security events.
• Business Development & Operational Support
• Deliver security assessments and feasibility studies for expansion into new markets.
• Integrate AVSEC considerations into commercial planning and operational decision-making.
• Identify secure corridors and reliable local partners to support business growth.
• Leadership & Coordination
• Build and lead a professional, multidisciplinary global security function.
• Establish best-in-class security systems, processes, and training programs.
• Serve as the primary liaison with the local CAA AVSEC and other regulatory stakeholders.
• Represent the company in international AVSEC working groups and task forces.

Requirements

• ICAO AVSEC Professional Manager qualification.
• Minimum 10 years’ experience in security roles, with at least 5 years in aviation security leadership.
• Proven background in Government or Military environments.
• Strong understanding of working within non-Western or Middle Eastern regulatory landscapes.
• ICAO, IATA, or ECAC Auditor certification (preferred).
• Aviation Security Training/Instructor certification from ICAO, IATA, or EASA.
• Quality Management certification advantageous.
• Demonstrated IT literacy and understanding of digital security infrastructure.
• Strong commercial awareness and collaboration with business teams.
• Exceptional communication, leadership, and analytical skills.
• Willingness to travel globally, including to high-risk and complex environments.

Personal Attributes

• Confident and collaborative leader with strong stakeholder management skills.
• Self-motivated, decisive, and capable of working under pressure.
• Analytical thinker with excellent problem-solving and prioritisation abilities.
• Fluent in English (spoken and written); additional languages an asset.
• Committed to maintaining high ethical and professional standards at all times.

Why work with Oaklands Global?

We are the world’s leading aviation and aerospace recruitment and executive search firm, trusted by the most respected names in the industry to deliver results with integrity, discretion, and excellence.

With over 50 years of combined experience, we don’t just fill roles, we shape careers and give our clients a competitive talent advantage. We take immense pride in the quality of our searches and are committed to representing only the very best candidates to the very best businesses.

At Oaklands Global, every application is handled with the utmost professionalism and complete confidentiality. If this opportunity interests you, please apply in confidence to William Finden. Whether or not your profile is shortlisted, you will hear from us, because we believe in treating every candidate with respect and care.

We’re not just here to help you land your next role. We are here to elevate your career.