Director FWSAR

Challenge, reward, and opportunity; PAL Aerospace is committed to offering them all. PAL Aerospace is a leader in international aerospace and defense design, development and operation of airborne surveillance aircraft, heavy maintenance checks and software applications. We provide a wide range of aviation and related services to domestic and international markets. Our Fixed-Wing Search and Rescue (FWSAR) Aircraft Maintenance team works side by side with the RCAF technicians and crews, maintaining the latest in search and rescue Aircraft technology in the Canadian Air Force on CC295 aircraft.

PAL Aerospace is currently looking for a Director FWSAR, to join our FWSAR team in Ottawa, ON .

The Director FWSAR shall report to the Senior Vice President Global Support and is responsible for the development, implementation and oversight of all FWSAR activities including In-Service Support (ISS) within PAL Aerospace. The Director FWSAR will require strong aerospace experience in addition to a deep understanding of finances & budgets, logistics, training, maintainability, team leadership, and supplier/customer relations.

Duties & Responsibilities:

• Establish, monitor and control PAL's FWSAR program in accordance with the approved implementation plan at the four main operating bases (MOBs) and Winnipeg-based MRO/Central Warehouse facility;
• Develop a strategic plan to continually advance the FWSAR ISS operations for improvement, growth, and capture of future opportunities;
• Ensure all FWSAR ISS activities are conducted in compliance with company and regulatory policies and procedures;
• Work closely and collaboratively with PAL HR to advertise, interview and hire FWSAR personnel in accordance with the FWSAR implementation schedule;
• Ensure all personnel have the appropriate training, qualification and authorization necessary to carry out their specific tasks;
• Directly supervise the FWSAR Senior Maintenance Manager, four Contractor Field Officers and the FWSAR Project Manager;
• Work collaboratively with Airbus Defence and Security to implement FWSAR standup and steady state operations;
• Routinely meet and brief Airbus Defence and Security at Progress Review Meetings and similar forums;
• Work collaboratively with the AirPro COO, CMO and other AirPro personnel to monitor FWSAR operations and MOB stand-up and readiness verification activities and address FWSAR operational support issues in an expeditious manner;
• liaise/communicate with PMO FWSAR, the CC-295 Weapon System Manager (WSM), the Directorate of Technical Airworthiness and Engineering Support (DTAES) and all other external agencies that may affect/impact FWSAR ISS operations;
• Develop an annual FWSAR operating budget and ensure strong financial forecasting, oversight and stewardship of the same and ensure the overall achievement of budgetary and efficiency targets on a quarterly and annual basis;
• Closely monitor FWSAR safety and airworthiness and lead Maintenance Review Meetings (MRMs) and an effective risk management program by identifying and mitigating risks and ensuring maintenance meets airworthiness requirements and the highest levels of safety possible;
• Communicate effectively with all internal and external stakeholders including civil and military aviation authorities, customers, and staff;
• Provide support to business development efforts and other special initiatives, including sales growth opportunities where directed;
• Ensure the highest levels of service to PAL Aerospace's clients;
• Ensure operational/key performance targets and programmatic milestones/deadlines are met and reported;
• Lead with a strong focus on mentoring and motivation;
• Oversee and manage controlled goods and exports;
• Travel frequently to St. John's, the Winnipeg MRO and the four FWSAR MOBs; and
• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications & Skills:

• Previous leadership experience in aviation operations;
• Proven track record of managing large, complex aviation programs with multiple stakeholders and delivering results with a hands-on, roll-up your sleeves mindset;
• Strong knowledge of Canadian aviation regulations and SAR frameworks;
• Experience working with government and defence clients is highly preferred;
• Demonstrated experienced managing large and complex budgets with a strong financial acumen, attention to detail and accountability;
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and decision-making skills;
• Ability to operate effectively and thrive in fast-paced, high-pressure tight deadline environments;
• Leadership style that collaborative, calm and decisive with the ability to inspire and motivate cross-functional teams;
• Excellent relationship-building skills - this is a people-first operation;
• Exceptional communication, problem solving and interpersonal skills;
• Data-driven mindset with a bias for action; and
• Eligibility to obtain and maintain a security clearance.

What We Offer:

• Personal travel privileges with PAL and interline agreements with multiple airlines
• Industry discounts
• Comprehensive health benefits including medical, dental, vision, and life insurance
• Pension Plan with Employer Matching
• Employee Stock Purchase Plan
• Employee Tuition Assistance Program
• Employee and Family Assistance Programs

PAL Aerospace is committed to fostering an inclusive work environment that celebrates and encourages diversity, equity, and inclusion whereby individuals are recognized, supported, and respected. Candidates of all backgrounds are encouraged to apply.

Only those candidates selected for an interview will be contacted. Thank you.

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