Flight Support Manager

Job DetailsLevel: ExperiencedJob Location: Fully Remote - Kinston, NC 28504Position Type: Full TimeEducation Level: Bachelor's DegreeTravel Percentage: NoneJob Shift: DayJob Category: OtherAbout flyExclusive  flyExclusive is one of the fastest-growing private aviation companies in the country — and we are just getting started. From our world-class Jet Club to our unmatched private jet charter, clients who fly with us receive a curated private jet experience that anticipates their needs for comfort and style. We operate a modern, curated fleet and deliver a world-class experience to our customers, backed by a team that holds itself to the highest standards of safety, service, and operational excellence. From our roots in Kinston, North Carolina to our expanding Raleigh headquarters, we are building something the industry has not seen before.  Why flyExclusive?  As we continue to build a leading aviation brand, nothing is more critical to this mission than the talented professionals that make up flyExclusive. We’re more than just a private jet company. We go beyond the industry standard to create a uniquely detailed customer experience that is visible throughout all our departments, from our software design and fleet coordinator teams to our pilots and technicians. If you are looking for people who motivate others around them, and build relationships that create trust and open communication, you will find that here. The people at flyExclusive create a culture of positivity and aren't afraid to make decisions for the good of their team and the company.  If that sounds like you, come and work with us at flyExclusive! We offer competitive pay within the aviation industry, generous time off with flexible scheduling, a great benefits package including 401k matching, relocation assistance, and career growth opportunities!  Job Summary The Lead Flight Support Specialist supports the daily operations of the Dispatch Department and provides leadership and oversight to ensure safe, efficient, and seamless coordination among internal departments, flight crews, clients, and external stakeholders. This position requires exceptional organizational and communication skills, strong leadership capabilities, sound operational judgment, and comprehensive knowledge of FAA and international aviation regulations. The Lead Flight Support Specialist serves as a key operational resource within the Operations Control Center (OCC), proactively identifying and resolving potential operational challenges before they impact the execution of a flight. The Lead Specialist also provides hands-on Flight Dispatcher support as needed to maintain continuity of operations during periods of high demand, staffing constraints, or irregular operations. Key Responsibilities  Provide day-to-day oversight and guidance to Flight Support Specialists, ensuring work is completed efficiently, accurately, and in compliance with company policies, procedures, and applicable regulations. Plan and coordinate downline trips outside the 24-hour operational window to identify and obtain missing information necessary for operational readiness, including passenger names, dates of birth, passport information, passenger weights, and other required trip details. Proactively identify and address potential operational issues prior to the 24-hour dispatch window, ensuring a smooth transition to the Dispatcher responsible for crew briefing and flight execution. Verify scheduled aircraft and flight crew availability and identify potential conflicts or constraints that may affect planned trips. Perform Flight Dispatcher duties as needed to ensure operational continuity during high-demand periods, staffing shortages, or other operational requirements. Ensure effective coordination among Sales, Dispatch, Flight Crews, Maintenance, and other internal departments to support seamless trip execution. Complete and verify required TSA passenger checks and ensure all applicable security requirements are satisfied. Review and verify flight logs to ensure the previous day's activity is complete, accurate, and properly reconciled. Identify discrepancies and coordinate with the appropriate personnel to obtain missing or corrected information. Review NOTAMs, TFRs, PPRs, airport slots, and other operational restrictions for upcoming trips. Communicate changes or required actions to the appropriate departments in a timely manner. Notify FBOs, ground handlers, and other applicable service providers of scheduled arrivals and departures. Coordinate early- and late-operation requirements for flights occurring outside normal business hours to ensure appropriate staffing and service availability. Utilize ForeFlight and other approved trip-planning resources to evaluate aircraft range, fuel requirements, and reserve requirements. Identify and communicate any required fuel stops or changes to the appropriate departments. Ensure all applicable customs, immigration, agriculture, international handling, and foreign government requirements are identified and satisfied for each flight segment. Coordinate advanced handling requirements for future international trips and ensure all required documentation, permits, services, and regulatory requirements are addressed prior to departure. Proactively monitor weather, air traffic control conditions, airport status, and other potential sources of operational disruption. Communicate anticipated impacts to clients, Scheduling, Dispatch, Flight Crews, and other affected stakeholders as appropriate. Maintain a high level of working knowledge of the flyExclusive Operations Manual, FAA regulations, international aviation regulations, Company Operations Specifications, company policies and procedures, and other information applicable to assigned duties. Conduct maintenance reviews for upcoming flights by verifying aircraft inspection status, aircraft hours, landings, and applicable MEL items against scheduled operations. Coordinate with Maintenance Planning to ensure upcoming maintenance events are properly identified, scheduled, and incorporated into operational planning. Provide visibility into anticipated aircraft availability and potential scheduling impacts. Maintain accurate and timely information in the Dispatch pass-down communication channel to ensure critical operational information is effectively communicated to Dispatchers across shifts. Promote a culture of operational awareness, accountability, and effective communication within the Dispatch Department. Perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned by management. Skills and Abilities Strong leadership, coaching, and team-support skills. Excellent organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced operational environment. Strong time-management and prioritization skills. Excellent problem-solving, decision-making, and critical-thinking abilities. Exceptional attention to detail and accuracy. Strong written and verbal communication skills. Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel. Ability to effectively communicate with flight crews, internal departments, clients, vendors, and other external stakeholders. Ability to remain composed and make sound operational decisions under time-sensitive or high-pressure conditions. Ability and willingness to work variable shifts, including nights, weekends, holidays, and other non-standard schedules as operationally required. Competencies Comprehensive knowledge of the flyExclusive Operations Manual, FAA regulations, international aviation regulations, Company Operations Specifications, and applicable company policies and procedures. Proficiency with ForeFlight and other approved trip-planning and operational support tools. Working knowledge of aircraft performance, fuel planning, flight planning, and business jet operations. Understanding of domestic and international flight support, including customs, immigration, handling, permits, PPRs, slots, and other regulatory or airport requirements. Ability to assess operational risk and proactively develop solutions to minimize disruptions to scheduled flight operations. Demonstrated ability to coordinate effectively across multiple departments and operational stakeholders. Supervisory Responsibilities This position does not have direct supervisory authority. Under the direction of the Director of the Operations Control Center (OCC), the Lead Flight Support Specialist provides day-to-day leadership, guidance, and operational oversight to Flight Support Specialists to promote operational excellence, consistency, and adherence to company standards. Work Environment Primarily an office and computer-lab environment with frequent interruptions and changing operational priorities. Regular exposure to aviation-related noise, including aircraft machinery, ground equipment, and jet engines. Work may require interaction with personnel in active airport and aircraft operating environments. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these essential functions. Physical Demands Ability to see and hear clearly. Ability to read, comprehend, and communicate effectively in English. Ability to sit, stand, and walk for extended periods. Ability to regularly lift and/or move items weighing up to 30 pounds. Ability to perform duties in an active aviation operations environment. Dress Code and Uniform Maintain a professional and well-groomed appearance. Adhere to all applicable departmental dress code and uniform requirements.   EEO Statement     flyExclusive does not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sex stereotyping, gender identity, gender expression or transgender status), national origin, sexual orientation, physical or mental disability, age, protected genetic information, status as a parent, marital status, political affiliation, or retaliation based on prior protected EEO activity.    Other Duties    Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.   QualificationsRequired Qualifications  FAA Aircraft Dispatcher Certificate or Pilot Certificate required. At least 60 days of experience as a flyExclusive Licensed Flight Dispatcher or flyExclusive Dispatcher is highly preferred. Bachelor’s degree in aviation or an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience. Knowledge of business jet performance and operational capabilities. Strong prioritization and coordination skills in a fast-paced environment. Creative and effective problem-solving abilities. Ability to develop and maintain strong, long-term relationships with internal and external customers. Must be authorized to work lawfully in the United States without sponsorship.  Candidates must successfully complete a comprehensive background check prior to employment. This includes verification of previous employment, education, criminal history, and any other relevant information necessary to determine the suitability for the position.  This position is classified as a Safety-Sensitive role under Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations and is subject to pre-employment and random drug and alcohol testing in accordance with FAA guidelines.