Vice President, Aircraft Solutions

Salem, OR, USA|Travel, Onsite

Job Overview

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Employment Type

Full-time
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Work Schedule

Standard Hours
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Benefits

Health Insurance
Dental Insurance
Paid Time Off
Retirement Plan
Paid holidays
Professional Development
Travel reimbursement

Job Description

Columbia Helicopters, a renowned leader in the heavy-lift helicopter industry for over 65 years, has established itself as a trusted provider of specialized aviation services worldwide. Known for creating new aircraft, expertly flying heavy-lift helicopters across global locations, and providing comprehensive maintenance support, Columbia Helicopters ensures mission readiness for the most critical operations. The company's dedication to innovation, safety, and quality craftsmanship has positioned it as a preeminent figure within aerospace, committed to advancing aviation solutions that meet and exceed customer demands in both domestic and international markets.

Joining the Columbia Family means embracing a culture of excellence and operation... Show More

Job Requirements

  • Bachelor’s degree in engineering, business, or related field
  • Minimum 15 years of progressive leadership experience in aerospace or aviation
  • At least 5 years in a P&L leadership role
  • Proven experience in commercial negotiations with OEMs, regulators, and global customers
  • Strong understanding of FAA/EASA certification requirements
  • Ability to lead cross-functional teams
  • Exceptional communication and leadership skills
  • Willingness to travel domestically and internationally
  • Ability to work primarily in an office environment with visits to production and hangar areas

Job Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in engineering, business, or related field
  • MBA or advanced degree preferred
  • Minimum 15 years of progressive leadership experience in aerospace or aviation
  • At least 5 years in a P&L leadership role
  • Proven track record in commercial negotiations with OEMs, regulators, and global customers
  • Strong understanding of FAA/EASA certification requirements
  • Knowledge of aerospace manufacturing processes and supply chain dynamics
  • Strategic thinker with strong financial acumen
  • Exceptional leadership and communication skills
  • Strong negotiation and relationship management abilities
  • Demonstrated success in operational transformation and margin improvement
  • Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment

Job Duties

  • Strategic leadership and P&L accountability
  • Own and manage the full P&L for Aircraft Solutions including revenue, margin, and cost structure
  • Develop and execute a multi-year growth strategy aligned with company objectives and market trends
  • Establish annual budgets, forecasts, and long-term plans
  • Track performance against targets and implement corrective actions
  • Drive new revenue streams and margin expansion through pricing strategies and portfolio diversification
  • Lead commercial negotiations with Boeing, Honeywell, regulatory authorities, and global customers
  • Formalize partnerships that protect company interests while enabling long-term growth
  • Represent Columbia in executive-level forums with OEMs, regulators, and customers
  • Ensure alignment between contractual frameworks, certification requirements, and customer expectations
  • Oversee Sales, Engineering, and PMO teams ensuring accountability and delivery against objectives
  • Ensure delivery of high-quality, on-time aircraft solutions meeting certification and customer requirements
  • Champion lean practices and continuous improvement initiatives to improve productivity and capacity
  • Lead risk management across commercial, regulatory, and supply chain domains
  • Serve as executive sponsor for key customers, ensuring strong relationships and satisfaction
  • Partner with Executive Leadership to identify and secure new opportunities in aircraft solutions
  • Support pricing strategies and contract structures that maximize margins and expand order book
  • Build, lead, and develop a high-performing leadership team
  • Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, safety, and continuous improvement
  • Ensure workforce planning aligns with business needs including training and succession planning
  • Support HR in strengthening executive team and embedding organizational values
  • Collaborate with MRO, aftermarket support, and Flight Operations teams to optimize resource allocation
  • Align planning and supply chain for on-time delivery and cost targets
  • Work with Finance and Executive Leadership on transparent reporting and strong financial controls

Job Qualifications

Experience

Expert Level (7+ years)

Job Location

We didn't receive the exact location for this job posting,
please contact the employer.

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