Manager Aviation Security Compliance & Assurance

About the role

The Manager Aviation Security Compliance & Assurance is responsible for establishing, safeguarding and continuously maturing Etihad’s aviation security compliance and assurance framework. Reporting to senior leadership, the role provides independent, risk‑informed assurance that security controls, investigations and corrective actions meet regulatory and industry standards.

Key responsibilities

• Design, maintain and evolve the Aviation Security Compliance & Assurance Framework aligned with GCAA CAR Part VII, ICAO Annex 17, IATA, IOSA/ISAGO and Etihad’s Security Management System.
• Own the strategic roadmap for compliance and assurance, driving capability, technology and analytics across the airline.
• Lead the annual compliance programme, overseeing audits, inspections, tests and exercises at Etihad stations, start‑up operations and third‑party service providers.
• Govern AVSEC investigations, ensuring consistent methodology, evidence standards and regulatory compliance.
• Review and approve investigation reports, audit findings and root‑cause analyses before escalation to executive management and regulators.
• Represent Etihad with GCAA, foreign regulators, ICAO and audit teams, managing responses to external findings.
• Standardise AVSEC policies, procedures and SOPs, ensuring operational compliance and closure of gaps.
• Maintain the Compliance Risk Register and assurance reporting framework, using data trends to identify emerging risks.
• Oversee enterprise‑wide corrective and preventive action programmes to ensure timely closure of findings.
• Lead, develop and mentor Compliance Managers, auditors and investigators, embedding best practices and quality standards.

Required profile

• Extensive experience in aviation security, compliance or assurance within an airline or regulator environment.
• Strong knowledge of GCAA CAR Part VII, ICAO Annex 17 SARPs, IATA standards and IOSA/ISAGO requirements.
• Proven ability to manage complex investigations, audits and corrective‑action programmes.
• Excellent communication skills for interaction with senior executives, regulators and external auditors.
• Leadership experience with a track record of developing high‑performing compliance teams.

Required skills

• In‑depth understanding of aviation security regulations and standards.
• Experience with risk‑based assurance methodologies and data‑driven analysis.
• Capability to design and implement compliance frameworks and roadmaps.
• Proficiency in managing CAPA processes and compliance risk registers.