OVERVIEWThe Global Travel and Expense Team is part of our Global Shared Service Organization, which provides global business and employees services to employees. We give General Mills a competitive advantage by providing world class travel, expense, and credit card service and technology solutions that allow our employees to focus on their core jobs driving to our company purpose of "We Make Food the World Loves." We are driven to be the premiere internal service organization and are looking for a private aviation expert who is ready to be a part of something special.
The Private Aviation Specialist is responsible for the overall strategy and meticulous planning, scheduling, and coordination of all private aviation flights for the company's Board of Directors and Senior Leaders. This role requires a high level of organizational skill, attention to detail, and the ability to manage complex schedules while adhering to strict safety regulations and company policies. The Specialist will act as the primary point of contact for all flight-related matters, ensuring seamless and efficient travel experiences.
The Private Aviation Specialist role requires a high degree of responsibility and the ability to work independently and as part of a team. It requires a proactive approach to problem-solving and a commitment to providing exceptional service. Experience working with high-profile clients is required.
KEY ACCOUNTABILIIES- Own strategy, management, and the direction of the General Mills Private Aviation program.
- Manage strategic and day-to-day supplier management.
- Manage operations through a rigorous focus on quality, compliance, cost and efficiency
- Maintain effective stakeholder relationships globally and cross-functionally
- Drive identification and implementation of technology solutions
- Identify and implement compliance/continuous improvement opportunities
- Develop and manage comprehensive flight schedules, optimize resource utilization and minimize conflicts.
- Ensure strict adherence to all safety regulations, company policies, and best practices within the private aviation industry.
- Proactively manage flight schedule changes, delays, or cancellations, communicating effectively with all stakeholders.
- Utilize flight and ground scheduling software (NetJets and Savoya) to optimize flight plans and resource allocation.
- Coordinate seamlessly with various teams, including pilots, crew members, ground operations, catering services, charter companies, and Fixed Base Operators (FBOs).
- Maintain up-to-date knowledge of industry trends, regulations, and best practices.
- Proactively identify and resolve potential scheduling conflicts or issues.
- Communicate effectively with clients (Board of Directors and Senior Leaders) regarding flight schedules and any potential disruptions.
- Manage and maintain accurate flight records and documentation.
- Coordinate with private aviation providers regarding flight paths, take-off and landing slots, and airport operating hours.
- Handle all aspects of flight logistics, including passenger manifests and special requests.
- Be onsite at FBO during Board of Director meetings to ensure seamless execution of private aviation flights/logistics.
- Managing catering orders considering dietary restrictions.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS- Bachelor's degree or higher in business, operations management, or related field OR Associate's Degree with 7+ years of experience.
- 5+ years of private/charter aviation utilizing/managing 3rd party suppliers.
- Proven experience as a Flight Scheduler
- In-depth knowledge of aviation regulations, safety standards, and best practices.
- Proficiency in various flight scheduling software applications
- Ability to remain calm and make sound decisions under pressure.
- Superior supplier management
- Ability to communicate and influence effectively across the organization, across different levels
- Ability to travel 10% (domestic and international)
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS- Exceptional organizational and time management skills with the ability to prioritize multiple tasks effectively.
- Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
- Excellent communication, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills.
- Knowledge & experience in managing corporate travel (individual employee travel).
- Global/multi-cultural customer service experience.
- Experience leading a cross-functional, indirect reporting team.
ADDITIONAL CONSIDERATIONS- Relocation support will be offered
- International relocation or international remote working arrangements (outside of the US) will not be considered.
- Applicants for this position must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full time basis. General Mills will not sponsor applicants for this position for work visas.
SALARY RANGEThe salary range for this position is:
$82,400 - $123,800 Annual
At General Mills we strive for each employee's pay at any point in their career to reflect their experiences performance and skills for their current role. The salary range for this role represents the numerous factors considered in the hiring decisions including, but not limited to, educations, skills, work experience, certifications, etc. As such, pay for the successful candidate(s) could fall anywhere within the stated range.
Beyond base salary, General Mills offers a competitive Total Rewards package focusing on your overall well-being. We are proud to offer a foundation of health benefits, retirement and financial wellbeing, time off programs, wellbeing support and perks. Benefits may vary by role, country, region, union status, and other employment status factors. You may also be eligible to participate in an annual incentive program. An incentive award, if any, depends on various factors, including, individual and organizational performance.
ELIGIBILITYApplicants must meet a minimum 18-year age qualification.
