Welcome to AALTO, a global leader in Stratospace. Based in Farnborough, AALTO is an Airbus subsidiary that manufactures, operates, and delivers services with its solar-powered, stratospheric platform: Zephyr.

Zephyr’s persistence enables continuous flight for months at a time. Its current flight-time record of over 67 days in the stratosphere. From above 60,000+ft, or 20km above ground, AALTO can deliver several applications including direct-to-device connectivity and high-resolution Earth observation.

AALTO operates in a new operational layer between most of air traffic and low-Earth orbit, Stratospace. This is where high-altitude platforms led by Zephyr deliver services to commercial and government partners. We can help monitor environments, observe borders, track natural disasters and connect unconnected communities.

Join us as we create a new domain of aerospace: Stratospace. You’ll be part of a highly-skilled, innovative and passionate group of people – Team AALTO. Together, we can Unlock Stratospace.

Job Purpose:

The Director of Industry is responsible for overseeing the entire manufacturing and supply chain operations for the Zephyr aircraft. This senior leadership role involves strategic planning, process optimization, and the execution of large-scale initiatives to drive operational excellence and global competitiveness. The Director will lead multifunctional teams, ensuring seamless integration across production, supply chain, and logistics functions to meet business objectives and customer demands.

Key Responsibilities:

Strategic Leadership:

• Develop and implement long-term strategic plans for production and global supply chain management, aligned with organizational goals.

• Lead cross-functional teams, fostering a culture of collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvement.

• Provide strategic direction and oversight to ensure the efficient and effective execution of production and supply chain operations.

Production and Supply Chain Management:

• Oversee all aspects of production operations, from planning and scheduling to execution and delivery, ensuring high-quality outputs and on-time performance.

• Manage global supply chain activities, including ordering, logistics, inventory management in close relationship with procurement organization and suppliers.

• Develop and implement strategies to optimize supply chain efficiency, reduce costs, and mitigate risks, ensuring timely availability of materials and components.

Operational Excellence:

• Identify and implement process improvement initiatives using Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and other continuous improvement methodologies to enhance productivity and efficiency.

• Stay abreast of industry trends and emerging technologies to incorporate best practices and drive innovation within production and supply chain operations.

• Ensure compliance with aerospace industry standards, regulatory requirements, and internal quality control procedures.

Resource Allocation and Management:

• Allocate resources effectively across production and supply chain functions, ensuring optimal utilization of personnel, equipment, and materials.

• Monitor and manage inventory levels, coordinating with supply chain teams to ensure timely procurement and availability of materials.

• Conduct regular capacity reviews to align internal resources with production targets and customer requirements.

Safety and Compliance:

• Promote a strong safety culture, ensuring adherence to all safety protocols and regulations across production and supply chain operations.

• Implement and maintain robust quality assurance and control procedures to ensure compliance with aerospace standards and regulatory requirements.

• Conduct regular inspections, audits, and risk assessments to identify and address safety and quality issues.

Performance Monitoring and Reporting:

• Develop and maintain comprehensive performance metrics and reporting systems to track production and supply chain performance.

• Prepare detailed reports and analysis on operational performance, highlighting key achievements, challenges, and areas for improvement.

• Provide regular updates to executive leadership on the status of production and supply chain operations, including progress on strategic initiatives.

Key Qualifications:

• Extensive experience in a senior production and supply chain management role within the aerospace industry.

• Proven track record of leading multifunctional teams and managing complex, large-scale operations.

• Deep understanding of aerospace manufacturing processes, standards, and regulatory requirements.

• Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills.

• Expertise in production planning, scheduling, and supply chain management systems.

• Proficiency in Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or other continuous improvement methodologies.

• Exceptional problem-solving abilities and capacity to make strategic decisions under pressure.

• Commitment to safety, quality assurance, and continuous improvement.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with ERP system implementation.

• NEBOSH/IOSH accredited.

• Previous FORM 4 holder (Part 21 G).

• Understanding of AS9100, APQP, and other aerospace standards.

• Certification in Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or Project Management.

At AALTO, we offer an exceptional work environment that values your well-being and rewards your dedication. As part of our team, you'll experience the freedom of flexible working that enable you to achieve a healthy work-life balance. We believe in recognizing your hard work and commitment, which is why we provide a fantastic bonus scheme that rewards your contributions. Additionally, we understand the importance of financial security and support your future with a competitive pension plan. When you join us, you become part of a workplace that not only encourages your professional growth but also cares about your personal fulfilment and financial stability.

AALTO HAPS Ltd. is an equal opportunities employer and positively encourages applications from suitably qualified and eligible candidates regardless of sex, race, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, religion or belief, marital status or pregnancy and maternity.

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