NOLAIR Drones, a Nigerian aerospace and drone technology startup developing advanced unmanned aerial systems for public safety, emergency response, infrastructure inspection, mapping and surveying, environmental monitoring, and security applications is hiring a Chief Operating Officer (COO).
Position Summary
The Chief Operating Officer (COO) will oversee the company’s day-to-day operations and ensure strategic initiatives are executed efficiently. The COO will work closely with the Founder & CEO to build scalable operational systems, recruit and lead teams, establish partnerships, improve internal processes, and drive sustainable business growth.
As a founding executive, the COO will play a critical role in shaping the company’s culture, operational excellence, and long-term success.
Key Responsibilities
– Lead the company’s daily operations and execution strategy.
– Develop operational policies, procedures, and standard operating processes (SOPs).
– Build and manage high-performing teams across engineering, operations, sales, customer success, and administration.
– Coordinate product development timelines with engineering teams.
– Ensure operational readiness for drone manufacturing, testing, deployment, and customer support.
– Develop key performance indicators (KPIs) and monitor company performance.
– Manage budgets, operational planning, and resource allocation.
– Build strategic partnerships with government agencies, enterprise clients, research institutions, and industry stakeholders.
– Identify operational risks and implement mitigation strategies.
– Improve organizational efficiency through process optimization.
– Support fundraising by preparing operational reports and participating in investor meetings.
– Ensure compliance with aviation, safety, and regulatory requirements.
– Oversee project delivery, quality assurance, and customer satisfaction.
– Foster a culture of accountability, innovation, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
Required Qualifications
– Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Operations Management, Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Aviation Management, Project Management, Supply Chain Management, or a related field.
– Minimum of 5 years of experience in operations, business management, engineering management, manufacturing, logistics, aviation, or technology leadership.
– Minimum of 3 years managing cross-functional teams.
– Proven ability to build and improve operational systems.
– Strong project management and organizational skills.
– Experience managing budgets and operational planning.
– Excellent leadership, communication, and decision-making abilities.
– Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
– Ability to thrive in a fast-paced startup environment.
Preferred Qualifications
– MBA or Master’s degree in Business Administration, Engineering Management, Operations Management, or a related field.
– Experience in the drone, aerospace, robotics, aviation, defense, or technology industry.
– Experience scaling startups from early-stage to growth-stage.
– Experience with fundraising, investor relations, and strategic planning.
– Familiarity with aviation regulations and quality management systems.
– Experience working with government agencies or enterprise clients.
– International business development experience is an advantage.
Compensation
This is a Founding Executive position.
– 8% Equity
– Salary to commence after successful fundraising or sustainable company revenue.
– Opportunity to participate in future executive compensation and performance incentives.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit:
– Resume/CV
– Cover Letter
– LinkedIn Profile
– Portfolio or examples of operational achievements (if applicable) to contact@nolairdrones.com
