Program Manager, Aviation

Program Manager – Aviation (Aerial Operations Center)

The Program Manager, Aviation for the Aerial Operations Center (AOC) oversees the contractual and compliance functions related to aerial contractors at Southern Company. Serving as the primary contact for third-party vendors, this position is tasked with collecting analytics to support credential management, contractor performance measurement, and safety monitoring. The Program Manager works with the Supply Chain Organization (SCM) to ensure that contract templates, standards, and compliance procedures are consistent with company policies and regulatory guidelines. The role also involves collaboration with both internal and external stakeholders, using data analysis to process operational information and provide actionable insights for improving data workflows.

Contract Administration

• Coordinate with aerial contractors, SCM, and system stakeholders to maintain alignment with company policies, regulatory requirements, industry practices, and compliance standards.
• Work alongside SCM to create and manage contract templates, standards, and compliance protocols.
• Track contract performance and compliance, addressing issues or inconsistencies as needed.

Stakeholder Collaboration

• Communicate with internal stakeholders—including the AOC team, SCM, and other departments—to facilitate contract operations.
• Maintain relationships with stakeholders throughout the organization, including executives, project managers, data analysts, IT personnel, and operational groups.
• Interface with external stakeholders such as contractors and regulatory agencies to support contract execution and compliance.
• Generate periodic updates and reports for management on contract status and performance.

Data Analysis & Technology Integration

• Apply data analysis skills to operational data to produce intelligence supporting business decisions.
• Analyze operational data to monitor and improve the efficiency of aerial operations.
• Develop and sustain technology tools to support data workflows and optimize operational efficiency.
• Implement technological solutions to streamline contract management and enhance data accuracy and accessibility.

Operational & Emergency Support

• Assist the AOC in daily tasks associated with aerial contractors.
• Provide support during emergency situations (e.g., storms), including contractor coordination, airspace management, and safety oversight.
• Contribute to the development and execution of operational strategies and initiatives.
• Offer training and support to team members on contract management procedures and systems.

Qualifications / Skills / Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree required
• Requires 3+ experience in contract administration, vendor management, compliance practices, or related areas of focus.
• Proficiency in data analysis, forecasting, and expertise in creating and maintaining technological interfaces are necessary. 
• Strong project management skills, including the ability to manage budgets, schedules, and risks, are essential; a Project Management Certification is preferred.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office; familiarity with mapping, automation, or data visualization tools is a plus.
• Excellent attention to detail, organization, and communication skills.
• Strong problem-solving abilities.

In addition:

• Ability to travel up to 25%.
• Willingness to work some evenings and/or weekends to meet program goals.

About Southern Company

Southern Company (NYSE: SO) is a leading energy provider serving 9 million customers across the Southeast and beyond through its family of companies. Providing clean, safe, reliable and affordable energy with excellent service is our mission. The company has electric operating companies in three states, natural gas distribution companies in four states, a competitive generation company, a leading distributed energy solutions provider with national capabilities, a fiber optics network and telecommunications services. Through an industry-leading commitment to innovation, resilience and sustainability, we are taking action to meet customers' and communities' needs while advancing our goal of net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. Our uncompromising values ensure we put the needs of those we serve at the center of everything we do and