The pathway
How you actually get there, here
How you become one varies far more by country than what one does. This is the UK route. Most people take one of these ways in; the right one depends on where you're starting from.
- 1
Head of Compliance / Safety Manager (Large Airline)
3-5 years in this role before DirectorSkills to master
- Mastering strategic programme management, building strong regulatory relationships, developing executive-level communication, and leading large, diverse teams.
You're ready to move on when
- Successfully led a major regulatory audit with zero Level 1 findings.
- Developed and implemented a significant safety improvement programme across multiple departments.
- Consistently received positive feedback on your ability to influence senior operational leaders.
- Mentored and developed at least two direct reports into more senior roles.
- 2
Senior Regulatory Affairs Manager (OEM or MRO)
4-6 years in this role before DirectorSkills to master
- Deepening expertise in specific regulatory domains (e.g., Part 21 design, Part 145 maintenance), understanding the regulatory landscape from a manufacturer's or maintenance provider's perspective, and translating those into airline operations.
You're ready to move on when
- Successfully navigated complex product certifications or maintenance approvals with regulatory bodies.
- Demonstrated ability to interpret and apply highly technical regulations to real-world scenarios.
- Built a strong network within the regulatory bodies relevant to product or maintenance approvals.
- Managed significant regulatory projects with multi-million pound implications.
- 3
Consulting Principal / Partner (Aviation Safety)
5-7 years in this role before DirectorSkills to master
- Developing a broad view of safety challenges across multiple airlines, honing strategic advisory skills, business development, and managing client relationships at an executive level.
You're ready to move on when
- Successfully advised multiple clients on complex SMS implementations or regulatory compliance issues.
- Developed and delivered strategic safety training or workshops for executive teams.
- Demonstrated ability to identify and secure new business opportunities in aviation safety consulting.
- Published thought leadership pieces or presented at major industry conferences.