Program Manager, Product Change and Development

De Havilland Aircraft of Canada Limited (DHC) is a storied name in the aerospace industry, recognized worldwide for its pioneering contributions to aviation and its unwavering commitment to quality, innovation, and reliability. Headquartered in Calgary, AB, DHC currently has approximately 2,400 employees across British Columbia, Alberta and Ontario, as well as in markets and distribution hubs world-wide.

Established in 1928, De Havilland Canada has a rich history marked by the development of some of the most iconic and versatile aircraft ever built. These aircraft have served a variety of roles - from bush flying to commercial aviation - and are celebrated for their rugged durability, operational versatility, and excellence in performance.

Over the decades, De Havilland Canada has evolved to meet the changing needs of the aviation industry. Today, we are more than just an aircraft manufacturer; we are a comprehensive aerospace company with capabilities that span design, production, maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services. Our operations are supported by a team of skilled engineers, technicians, and industry professionals who are dedicated to upholding the highest standards of craftsmanship and innovation.

Position Summary

The Program Manager, Product Change Management & Development reports to the Director, Product Planning and Improvement and will liaise with internal departments in the areas of Engineering, Commercial Programs, Manufacturing, Operations, Technical Services, IT, Legal, HR, Finance, the Executive leadership, and other key stakeholders. The Program Manager will also interact with customers, suppliers, and consultants. The primary purpose of the role is to:

• Manage cross functional projects within schedule, budget, and quality to support aftermarket activities and customer operations.
• Evaluate, schedule, and budget any required project. Ensure quality and risk management, as well as governance and team coordination of the projects and programs to comply with company strategy and targets.
• Apply project management, and DHC business practices in managing internal and external work enabling satisfaction of project outcomes.
• Manage the program strategy related to obsolescence, regulatory and certification requirements.
• Support internal strategic initiatives (e.g. margin improvement initiatives, aircraft pricing strategies)
• Responsible for the business case of future derivatives and product enhancements
• Prepare offers, including Price and Lead time, to the customers for requested aircraft features.
• Strive to improve and develop internal practices and processes applying continuous improvement and Lean principles.
• Always represent De Havilland in a professional and courteous manner in every communication with customers or prospective customers. Strive to achieve world class customer service performance

Duties & Responsibilities

• Develop detailed, comprehensive project plans based on approved objectives.
• Identify and manage risks to mitigate impact to program scope, schedule, cost, and quality constraints.
• Create and sustain clear and concise communication to keep sponsors and stakeholders informed.
• Define program milestones and ensure programs adhere to a realistic schedule and communicate delays appropriately.
• Ensure all customer commitments are met or exceeded.
• Establish and manage project budgets and use DHC project cost controls for program cost management.
• Establish quality criteria for program success and ensure projects are measured against initial quality criterion through conception to completion.
• Ensure the appropriate level of project governance is in place to allow for timely decision-making and project progress reporting.
• Ensure clear communication with team members for objectives, timelines, and priorities.
• Ensure feedback to functional management as necessary.
• Demonstrate leadership in a fast-paced, complex environment with competing priorities.

 Education & Experience

• Engineering or Business degree, preferably Aerospace related, or an equivalent level of combined education and experience.
• 5-7 years' experience working in a program management role, within a multi-function, multi-level organizational environment.
• Experience in an aerospace engineering and/or manufacturing environment considered an asset.

Skills

• Team oriented and works well in a collaborative environment.
• PMP or PgMP certification is highly desirable.
• Demonstrated strong negotiation skills.
• Highly skilled in Microsoft Project. Proficient in the use of O365 suite of tools (Word, Excel, SharePoint).
• Excellent ability to communicate a strategy using presentation tools such as PowerPoint.
• Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing.
• Demonstrated interpersonal skills and ability to build relationships and work effectively with people at all organizational levels.

Work Location & Conditions of Employment

• Candidate will be required to live in Toronto or Calgary area.
• Candidate will be required to work in the office full time in a collaborative, and innovative environment.
• Candidate may be required to travel at short notice.
• Schedule flexibility may be required

Why work at De Havilland?

De Havilland Canada is a Canadian-owned and operated aircraft manufacturer dedicated to providing rewarding opportunities in a diverse and welcoming workplace.

• Work with a team that makes a true difference in the world-making it possible for people to travel around the globe efficiently, comfortably and safely.
• We’ve manufactured over 5,600 aircraft including the most advanced turboprop in the air today. Our experience and expertise in constructing the highest performing aircraft in the industry is second to none.
• Our state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities are dynamic workplaces led by teams that support and encourage all employees.
• With a passionate team of innovators and a global network of support, De Havilland Canada proudly carries on it’s tradition as a leader in aerospace.

In addition to plenty of opportunities for career growth in a stimulating work environment, De Havilland Canada offers:

• Competitive wages
• Paid vacation
• Extended health benefits (medical, dental, vision, paramedical)
• Life insurance
• RRSP/DPSP Plan
• Employee and family assistance program

At De Havilland Aircraft of Canada (DHC), we are committed to protecting our people, customers, shareholders and the public through Health & Safety Excellence. As such, it is expected that all employees maintain strict adherence to Health & Safety Policies and to perform key physical tasks of the position described in the job description and interview process. This may include but is not limited to the ability to work in a variety of environmental conditions including temperature extremes, confined spaces, working at heights and with or around chemicals. Employees are expected to adhere to the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) when at work which must include but is not limited to the ability to maintain a positive fit test when mask use is required.

At De Havilland Canada, we aim to be inclusive and diverse and provide equal opportunity for employment. All qualified applicants, regardless of gender, age, race, religion, sexual orientation, and disability, are encouraged to apply. De Havilland will accommodate the needs of applicants with disabilities throughout all stages of the selection process. If you need accommodation during the recruitment process, please advise your Talent Acquisition representative. Information relating to the need for accommodation and accommodation measures will be addressed confidentially.

Any offer of employment is conditional on the completion of positive and satisfactory background checks, which may include, proof that you are legally entitled to work in Canada, professional references, verification of employment history, verification of educational background and criminal background checks.