About the Role
Zipline is transforming global logistics through autonomous, on-demand delivery systems that transport critical medical and commercial goods to hard-to-reach areas. We are seeking a dynamic Operations Readiness Program Manager to spearhead our Long Range Platform site launches across Nigeria. In this high-impact role, you will own country-level readiness for multiple concurrent site activations, making critical go/no-go decisions, driving cross-functional alignment, and raising operational standards to ensure faster, safer, and highly reliable network expansion.
Key Responsibilities- Own end-to-end operational readiness for 3 to 6 concurrent Long Range Platform site launches across Nigeria, from initial planning to first flight and stabilization.
- Define and enforce strict go/no-go criteria, acceptance standards, and launch KPIs covering safety, staffing, infrastructure, and equipment.
- Lead cross-functional cadence between Recruiting, Academy, Engineering, Construction, Supply Chain, and Regulatory teams to resolve conflicts and mitigate risks.
- Validate site readiness through rigorous on-site checkouts, acceptance tests, and flight-readiness demonstrations before launch.
- Conduct post-launch reviews and root-cause analyses to continuously improve deployment playbooks and time-to-service metrics.
- Minimum of 5 years of experience in program management, field operations, or deployment within technical, regulated, or aviation-adjacent environments.
- Proven track record of managing multi-stakeholder field site rollouts with measurable success in schedule adherence and safety metrics.
- Demonstrated ability to define acceptance tests and make high-pressure go/no-go launch decisions.
- Exceptional stakeholder management and escalation judgment, with the ability to present decision-ready summaries to leadership.
- Willingness to travel up to 30% across Nigeria and spend extended periods on-site during critical launch windows.
- Full fluency in English and authorization to work in Nigeria.
- Competitive salary and comprehensive health coverage.
- Opportunity to work with cutting-edge autonomous aviation technology.
- Direct contribution to life-saving medical logistics and community development in Nigeria.
- Dynamic, fast-paced work environment with clear paths for professional growth.