The Vice President of Propulsion and Turbomachinery will lead the development, innovation, and lifecycle management of propulsion systems, including jet engines, APUs, and related turbomachinery components. This individual will shape the strategic roadmap, oversee technical excellence, and ensure program success across commercial and defense platforms.
Strategic Leadership: Define and execute long-term propulsion and turbomachinery technology roadmaps aligned with company goals, regulatory trends, and market evolution.
Technical Oversight: Guide multidisciplinary teams in the design, analysis, testing, and validation of propulsion systems including compressors, turbines, combustion systems, and rotating machinery.
Innovation Management: Drive innovation in high-performance, fuel-efficient, and sustainable propulsion technologies, including hybrid-electric and hydrogen-capable systems.
Cross-Functional Coordination: Collaborate with Engineering, R&D, Program Management, Manufacturing, and Business Development to deliver integrated propulsion solutions.
Customer & Partner Engagement: Act as executive liaison with OEMs, airframers, regulatory agencies, academic institutions, and technology partners.
Budget & Resource Planning: Manage department budgets, resource allocation, and capital investments to support technology development and operational excellence.
Talent Development: Build and mentor a high-performing team of propulsion and turbomachinery experts; foster a culture of continuous improvement and technical rigor.
Certification Strategy: Oversee certification plans (FAA, EASA, DoD) and ensure compliance with applicable standards such as FAR Part 33, DO-160, and MIL specs.
Next-Gen Propulsion: Lead development of next-generation propulsion architectures including geared turbofans, open rotors, and integrated APU/electric systems.
Advanced Turbomachinery: Guide innovations in axial and centrifugal compressor/turbine design, efficiency improvements, and life extension methods.
Thermal Efficiency & Sustainability: Champion efforts to reduce fuel burn and emissions using advanced materials (e.g., CMCs, titanium aluminides), additive manufacturing, and advanced cooling techniques.
Hybrid & Electric Integration: Shape propulsion strategies that incorporate electric motors, energy storage, and power electronics within traditional turbomachinery frameworks.
Digital Engineering: Leverage digital twin, AI/ML, and MBSE for real-time performance optimization, predictive maintenance, and design simulation.
Global Supply Chain Strategy: Oversee the development and qualification of global suppliers specializing in high-precision turbomachinery components.
Master’s or Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field.
15–25+ years of experience in propulsion and turbomachinery, including at least 10 years in senior leadership roles.
Proven track record of leading major propulsion programs in commercial or military aerospace sectors.
Deep knowledge of thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, heat transfer, and mechanical design in propulsion systems.
Experience working with regulatory agencies and navigating complex certification programs.
Strong executive presence, strategic mindset, and ability to inspire high-performing technical teams.
Background in electrified propulsion, hydrogen propulsion, or sustainable aviation technologies.
Recognized thought leader in turbomachinery (conference papers, patents, industry panels).
Experience in global engineering operations or joint ventures.
Familiarity with PLM systems, CFD/FEM tools, and integrated test facilities.