Tulsa, Oklahoma, USA – Christiansen Aviation is seeking a Senior Director of Aircraft Leasing and Maintenance to lead its leasing division at Tulsa Riverside Airport (KRVS). As the largest U.S. leasing company specializing in training category aircraft, Christiansen Aviation supports both Part 61 and Part 141 flight schools, providing a diverse fleet and in-house maintenance services.

This leadership role is ideal for candidates with extensive experience in capital equipment leasing, fleet management, or aviation operations, with a proven track record in strategic planning, financial oversight, and team leadership.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership & Planning

• Lead a team of over 20 administrative and maintenance staff
• Develop and implement strategies for fleet utilization, asset value maximization, and profitability
• Report directly to the company President and collaborate with senior leadership on operational goals

Leasing Operations Management

• Oversee the entire leasing process: customer vetting, pricing, lease structuring, renewals, and asset management
• Manage contract negotiations and ensure compliance with financial and aviation regulations
• Monitor lease performance and take corrective actions when necessary

Vendor & Customer Relationship Management

• Build strong relationships with vendors, manufacturers, and clients
• Negotiate vendor agreements and strategic partnerships
• Ensure high levels of customer satisfaction and retention

Maintenance Operations Oversight

• Direct cost-effective maintenance programs ensuring airworthiness of returned aircraft
• Manage maintenance planning, quality assurance, and FAA compliance
• Optimize maintenance schedules and control costs

Financial & Asset Management

• Develop and manage leasing and maintenance budgets
• Conduct financial analysis and report to executive leadership
• Oversee asset valuation, lifecycle management, and compliance with financial regulations

Regulatory Compliance & Safety

• Ensure all leasing and maintenance activities meet FAA standards and financial regulations
• Collaborate with legal and compliance teams for audits and risk assessments

Team Leadership & Development

• Mentor administrative and maintenance staff, fostering a culture of safety and efficiency
• Align team goals with company objectives and industry best practices

Candidate Requirements

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Finance, Economics, Aviation Management, or a related field (Master’s degree preferred)

Experience:

• Minimum of 10+ years in equipment leasing, fleet management, or asset management
• At least 5 years in a senior leadership role
• Experience in aviation leasing and knowledge of FAA regulations is highly desirable

Technical Skills:

• Expertise in lease structuring, financial analysis, and risk management
• Strong knowledge of aviation regulations (FAA) and financial reporting standards
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint)

Leadership & Soft Skills:

• Strong strategic planning and team management skills
• Excellent negotiation, communication, and relationship-building abilities
• Ability to travel for vendor and client management

Preferred Qualifications:

• Strong network within the aviation or capital leasing industries
• Proven success in driving growth and profitability in leasing portfolios
• Experience in digital transformation and automation of leasing operations

Compensation & Benefits:

• Salary: $140,000 – $150,000 + Performance Bonuses
• Benefits: 401(k), Medical, Dental, Vision, Paid Time Off

To apply, please visit their website or contact Christiansen Aviation’s recruitment team.

Source: Christiansen Aviation