Vice President Engineering - Component Repairs & Warranty

Job description / Role

Job overview

Lead the Component Repair and Warranty Management teams, including Powerplant Repair, to achieve optimal operational efficiency, effective cost management, and strategic business growth. Develop and execute strategies for engine and component repairs that safeguard EK both technically and commercially, while mitigating supply chain risks and ensuring continuous operational support. Provide direction and support for the development of in-house repair capability and the business development of Component Repair capability for EK Engineering and suppliers in Dubai.

Job outline

• Develop and implement strategic plans for the next 5 years, focusing on component repairs, engine/APU repairs, and warranty management. Set clear priorities, define cost and performance targets, and ensure the alignment of resources to meet these objectives.
• Direct and organize the execution of components, engine, APU, thrust reverser, and nacelle service contracts, ensuring seamless management of removal programs and effective coordination with external repair suppliers and in-house workshops.
• Negotiate after-market maintenance and support agreements for landing gears, engines, APU, and other aircraft components that provide comprehensive repair and operational support coverage, along with procurement. Ensure suppliers meet their contractual obligations, holding them accountable for deliverables, and influence challenges to a positive outcome.
• Establish and manage the direct maintenance cost budget for component repairs, power plant, and APU repairs, ensuring optimal cost control and repair cycle time (TAT). Make decisions regarding repair scope, cost approvals, and scrap authorization.
• Build and sustain a broad network of internal and external contacts, including aircraft and engine manufacturers, suppliers, and other airlines, to establish robust component repair support and efficient supply chain partnerships.
• Support the overall strategy for business development and evaluation of the component repair capabilities of EK Engineering (in-house) and its suppliers in Dubai, from both strategic and operational perspectives. Evaluate alternative options including joint ventures with suppliers to drive efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
• Lead the end-to-end warranty and guarantee claim process including negotiation of warranty repair agreements and commitment letters. Implement a robust process to collate cost data on warranty repairs and aircraft incidents for recovery through claims via hull insurance, spares, transit damage, or third-party caused incidents. Ensure claims are lodged with vendors for timely cost recovery.
• Drive the introduction of advanced systems and innovative solutions to monitor and track component repairs, warranty, and suppliers performance. Additionally, lead and foster a culture that delivers on the section's objectives with a high degree of professionalism, commitment, and proactiveness, while providing direction, coaching, and support to enhance team competency and capabilities.

Qualifications & experience

Degree or honours (12+3 or equivalent):

Experience:

Engineering. Other: 12+ years

Knowledge/skills:

• Progressive leadership experience in airline engineering, MRO operations, or aviation supply chain.
• Bachelor’s degree in aeronautical/aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, or supply chain management from a recognised institution.
• Postgraduate qualification in engineering management, supply chain strategy, or MBA preferred.
• Experience in aircraft engineering and maintenance with significant experience at a management level in material management, component/engines repairs, and support services.
• Strong business acumen, leadership experience, and strategic business initiatives.
• Proven track record of leading change management and leading a team in a multi-cultural environment.
• Ability to introduce best practice inventory management techniques.
• In-depth knowledge of supply chain and inventory management systems.
• Analytical thinking with problem-solving ability.

Safety sensitive role: No

Leadership role: Yes

About the Company

A fast-growing international airline with one of the youngest fleets in the sky and more than 400 awards for excellence worldwide.