Drones Manager

PURPOSE & OBJECTIVE

The Drone Manager is responsible for the overall governance, operational management, regulatory compliance, and safety performance of all Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) activities across Endeavour Mining’s sites in Burkina Faso, Côte d’Ivoire, and Senegal. The role oversees the drone fleet, UAS pilots and observers, and the delivery of drone-based services including surveillance, topography, and counter UAS (C UAS) operations.

The position ensures the continuous improvement of service levels, operational readiness, and full compliance with national aviation regulations and Endeavour Aviation’s Safety Management System (SMS) in close coordination with the EDVA safety & Quality manager.

Reporting Lines:

• Direct report: Accountable Manager, Endeavour Aviation.

• Functional interactions: Security Operations, SOC, Site GMs, HSE, Technical Services, IT/Cybersecurity.

KEY ACCOUNTABILITIES

Gouvernance & Compliance

Develop, implement, and maintain the Drone Safety Policy, procedures, service levels (SLAs), and performance indicators (KPIs).
Ensure full regulatory compliance with ANAC, ANACIM, U Space, and all relevant UAS frameworks. Lead internal audits, documentation reviews, and conformity assessments.
Ensure compliance with Endeavour Aviation SMS, SOPs, and operational standards.

Operations Management

Supervise all UAS operations, including flight planning, risk assessments, NOTAM/METAR reviews, meteorological checks, and operational documentation.
Ensure proper application of risk mitigation measures (geofencing, detect and avoid, emergency procedures).
Manage the drone fleet lifecycle: acquisition, configuration, software/firmware management, maintenance, and asset availability.
Coordinate mission prioritization, resource allocation, and pilot rostering.

Counter UAS (C UAS)

Implement and operate C UAS detection, localization, and intervention capabilities.
Coordinate with Security Operations, site protection teams, and national authorities on C UAS responses.
Maintain all C UAS documentation, sensors, logs, and performance data. Safety, Reporting & Incident Management
Lead incident investigations, reporting, root cause analyses, and lessons learned.
Ensure adherence to incident reporting protocols and maintain a continuous improvement loop. Monitor operational hazards and ensure alignment with Endeavour risk management processes.

Information & Data Security

Ensure the security of communication links (C2), data encryption, and cyber protection of drone platforms.
Supervise app and firmware management, with strict configuration control.

People Leadership & Training

Lead the qualification, recurrent training, and certification requirements of UAS pilots and observers.
Maintain competency matrices, training plans, and operational authorizations.

Stakeholder & External Relations

Manage interactions with aviation authorities, insurance providers, OEMs/technical partners, and service suppliers.
Support cross functional coordination with Security, Exploration, Technical Services, and corporate functions.

SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE & EXPERIENCE

Education & Experience

Relevant degree in aviation, engineering, or security (preferred).
UAS pilot certification (or equivalent) required.
Minimum 5–7 years of experience in aviation, UAS operations, or security technology fields.

Technical Competencies

Strong knowledge of UAS regulations (ANAC, ANACIM, U Space, ICAO UAS/RPAS frameworks). Proven operational experience in drone operations, flight safety, and risk management.
Experience with C UAS technologies (detection, geolocation, electronic countermeasures). Understanding of data security, encryption, and cyber protection.
Ability to draft procedures, standardize processes, and structure operating documentation.

Leadership & Soft Skills

Strong decision making and prioritization in operational environments.
Excellent communication and reporting skills.
Ability to train, coach, and evaluate pilots.
Strong coordination with internal and external stakeholders.

TYPE OF CONTRACT: LONG TERM