Head of Aircraft Programs

Synopsis

Join Etihad Airways, one of the fastest growing airlines in the world, and play a pivotal role in our journey to 170+ aircraft by 2030.

This high-impact role offers the opportunity to shape Etihad’s future fleet, cabin innovation, and complex aircraft development as we double our fleet & global airport network.
As Head of Aircraft Programs, you will be accountable for the airline’s aircraft development program from concept to delivery, covering specifications and configuration, BFE/SFE Cabin development, production oversight and delivery, entry into service coordination, and major in-service retrofits within budget and specified timelines.

Accountabilities

• Accountable for the aircraft program management by ensuring successful technical specification, development, production and induction of new aircraft and BFE cabin products into the fleet.
• Responsible for ensuring the Technical Standards and Specifications of all new aircrafts meet the regulatory authority requirements laid down by UAE GCAA, EASA, & FAA as well as specification costs are maintained within project budgetary scope.
• Direct and provide expertise on the development of major products such as Cabin interior and IFE/Connectivity upgrade programs to support Linefit and Cabin Reconfigurations.
• Management of any Technical projects including the review of engineering specifications, tenders, contracts and lease agreements related to existing or planned aircraft fleets.
• Develop strategies related to cabin generation upgrades, linking in cabin product lifecycle, maintenance costs and latest trends in product design and development.
• Manage a team of senior project managers and engineers and direct the task allocation, budget management and objectives for the department and general team management functions.
• Manage senior level internal and external stakeholder with regular communication on key topics and managing escalations with suppliers and internally
  Education & Experience

Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in the field of Aeronautical, Mechanical or Electrical/Electronic engineering and/or an Aircraft maintenance engineer’s license (ICA0 II).
• A minimum of 15 years aviation industry experience with at least 5 years in leadership role in technical functions.
• In-depth knowledge of certification, design and Engineering regulations (Specifically GCAA and EASA), product development, financial management and project management.
• Strong leadership, communication, decision-making and problem-solving skills.
• Preferred Background: Proven track record of leading large-scale aircraft development, induction, or cabin retrofit programs within major airlines, OEMs, or Tier-1 suppliers.
  Extensive stakeholder management experience, collaborating with OEMs (Airbus/Boeing), regulatory authorities, and cabin/IFE suppliers to deliver complex aircraft programs on time and within budget.