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 1,400 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 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 Manager will also interact with customers, suppliers, and consultants.

The primary purpose of the role is to:

• Lead a product development team who manage complex, cross functional projects and are responsible for maintaining accurate scope, schedule constraints, and planned budget for aircraft platforms.
• Lead a Price and Offerability team who manage approved customer requests for aircraft modifications and/or develop aircraft options with the support of a cross-functional team.
• Ensure quality standards are adhered and safety is prioritized for all team members in all projects.
• Effectively manage program risk and ensure that governance and escalation processes are in place for proactive mitigation strategies.
• Coordinate programs and the team to align with company strategy and targets.
• Ensure the team utilizes project management principles, standards, and expertise for all internal and external program deliverables.
• Participate in internal and external program stakeholder meetings, including customers, to ensure the alignment of expectations for program deliverables.
• Ensure application of professional standards and company processes are followed in accomplishing program activities.
• Always represent De Havilland in a professional and courteous manner in every communication with all stakeholders.

Duties & Responsibilities:

• Develop detailed, comprehensive program plans based on approved objectives.
• Assign Project Manager's to projects based on expertise, skill, and appropriate fit.
• 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.
• Lead the team to ensure all customer commitments are met or exceeded.
• Establish and manage program 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 program and project governance is in place to allow for timely decision-making and program progress reporting.
• Ensure clear communication with team members for objectives, timelines, and priorities. Hold team members accountable for their commitments and ensure on-time delivery of the program.
• Ensure feedback to functional management as necessary.
• Demonstrate leadership in a fast-paced, complex environment with competing priorities.

 

Education & Experience:

• Undergraduate degree in relevant field or an equivalent level of combined education and experience.
• 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.
• Six Sigma certification or knowledge is 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.
• Results oriented.
• Solution oriented.
• Capability to maintain steady control and calm when facing challenges.
• Ability to learn complex processes and to comply with them.
• Critical thinker who can navigate complex, unclear situations.
• Willingness to hold individuals accountable inside and outside the organization.
• Metrics-focused.
• Willingness to learn and improve.

Work Location & Conditions of Employment:

• Candidate will be required to live in Calgary, Alberta.
• 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.

---