The Executive Program Manager for Aircraft Environmental Systems leads the strategic planning, execution, and delivery of complex aerospace environmental control system programs. This role oversees all phases of development for systems such as air conditioning, pressurization, ventilation, and thermal management across multiple aircraft platforms. The Executive Program Manager integrates cross-functional teams, manages supplier and customer relationships, and ensures programs meet cost, schedule, quality, and performance objectives aligned with corporate goals.
Key Responsibilities:
Lead end-to-end management of aircraft environmental systems programs including air conditioning packs, environmental control units (ECUs), cabin pressurization, ventilation, and thermal management solutions
Develop and maintain integrated master schedules, budgets, and resource plans aligned with engineering, manufacturing, supply chain, and business strategies
Manage cross-functional teams including mechanical, electrical, thermal engineers, manufacturing, quality, and supply chain professionals
Drive risk management processes including identification, mitigation, and contingency planning throughout program lifecycle phases (concept, design, prototyping, testing, production, and certification)
Facilitate and lead design reviews, critical design reviews (CDRs), test readiness reviews (TRRs), and production readiness reviews (PRRs)
Oversee supplier development, contract management, and coordinate with external vendors and subcontractors to ensure timely delivery and quality compliance
Lead customer communications and interface management including progress reporting, issue resolution, and alignment on technical and business requirements
Champion continuous improvement initiatives in program management practices, system integration, and engineering processes
Ensure compliance with aerospace regulatory standards (FAA, EASA) and internal quality frameworks (AS9100, ISO)
Key Focus Areas:
Comprehensive program management for aircraft environmental control systems
Cross-disciplinary team leadership and stakeholder engagement
Schedule, cost, and scope management for high-complexity aerospace programs
Supplier and customer relationship management
Risk mitigation and quality assurance
Qualifications & Skills:
Education:
Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related technical discipline (required)
Master’s degree or MBA (preferred)
Certifications:
PMP (Project Management Professional) certification strongly preferred
Lean Six Sigma or Agile certifications a plus
Experience:
12+ years of program management or technical leadership experience in aerospace environmental control systems or related mechanical systems
Proven track record managing large, multi-disciplinary aerospace programs from concept through certification and production
Experience collaborating with suppliers, regulatory authorities, and customers in complex aerospace projects
Technical Skills:
Strong understanding of aircraft environmental control systems design, integration, and validation
Proficient with program management tools (MS Project, Primavera, JIRA) and PLM systems
Knowledgeable in regulatory certification processes for environmental systems (RTCA DO-160, FAA/EASA requirements)
Familiar with engineering tools such as CAD (CATIA, NX) and thermal/fluid simulation software
Soft Skills:
Strategic thinker with excellent leadership and communication skills
Strong interpersonal skills for managing diverse teams and stakeholder relationships
Results-driven, adaptable, and skilled at managing ambiguity in fast-paced environments
Ability to lead through influence and drive cross-functional collaboration