Director, Product Support
Director, Product Support

Director, Product Support

Full-Time 75000 - 100000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
AALTO

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead logistics support for the innovative Zephyr Air System and ensure operational excellence.
  • Company: Join AALTO, a pioneering Airbus subsidiary in stratospheric technology.
  • Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, competitive pension, and a rewarding bonus scheme.
  • Other info: Be part of a diverse team that values well-being and career growth.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact in aerospace logistics and support groundbreaking technology.
  • Qualifications: Bachelor's degree in engineering or logistics with aerospace experience required.

The predicted salary is between 75000 - 100000 £ per year.

AALTO, a global leader in Stratospace based in Farnborough, is an Airbus subsidiary that manufactures, operates and delivers services with its solar‑powered stratospheric platform Zephyr. Zephyr enables continuous flight for months at a time and operates above 60,000 ft, providing 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, delivering services such as environment monitoring, border observation, natural disaster tracking and connectivity for unconnected communities.

Job Purpose

The Director, Product Support is responsible for the strategic planning, execution and oversight of all logistics support activities and In Service Support (ISS) across the lifecycle of the Zephyr systems. This role ensures that logistics considerations are embedded in the design, development, production, deployment and sustainment phases to optimise readiness, reduce lifecycle costs and enhance system availability. The position is based in Farnborough, UK and reports directly to the Chief Programme & Delivery Officer within the Programme Management department.

Responsibilities

  • Organise the ‘Entry into Service’ of the platform as Zephyr enters commercialisation.
  • Lead the development and execution of Integrated Logistics Support (ILS) strategies for the Zephyr Air System including creation of processes, procedures and associated tools.
  • Lead the ISS activities for the Zephyr Air System for operations.
  • Manage cross‑functional teams responsible for logistics that directly support:
  • Maintenance planning
  • Supply chain (repair cycle, consumables and rotable spares)
  • Technical documentation
  • Support to training devices
  • Ground support equipment from needs identification to full operational implementation
  • Facilities and infrastructure
  • IT‑based systems support
  • Interface with Engineering and Airworthiness to ensure that design changes are captured for Maintainability, Testability and Reliability requirements.
  • Identify requirements for PBIT, CBIT, IBIT and external tools to increase operational availability and review maintenance trend data with the airworthiness department to improve reliability (Line Maintenance and MRO).
  • Oversee the development of logistics documentation including LSA and technical manuals (IETMs).
  • Ensure compliance with applicable military and commercial standards.
  • Work closely with the Director of CAMO and the Maintenance Control section of CAMO to ensure on‑time availability of air system spares and Engineering Services, manage ILS program performance, improve schedule and budget through KPI monitoring and provide regular reports to senior leadership.
  • Lead continuous improvement efforts to enhance product supportability and reduce total ownership costs.
  • Experience

    • Bachelor’s degree in engineering, logistics or related field.
    • Demonstrated experience in aerospace logistics, including a leadership role.
    • Experience working within an operational aviation environment.
    • Deep understanding of ILS principles and logistics support elements in aerospace programs and In Service Support (ISS).
    • Familiarity with defence and commercial aerospace standards and regulatory requirements.
    • Experience with ILS modelling tools and LSA databases.

    Key Skills

    • Strategic thinking and program management.
    • Strong leadership and team development.
    • Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement.
    • Analytical mindset and systems thinking.
    • Proficiency in logistics modelling tools.
    • Ability to make operational decisions in a high‑pressure environment.

    At AALTO, we offer an exceptional work environment that values well‑being and rewards dedication, providing flexible working and a competitive pension plan along with a bonus scheme that acknowledges contributions. 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.

    Director, Product Support employer: AALTO

    AALTO, a pioneering force in Stratospace technology based in Farnborough, offers an outstanding work environment that prioritises employee well-being and professional growth. As a Director of Product Support, you will benefit from flexible working arrangements, a competitive pension plan, and a bonus scheme that recognises your contributions to our innovative projects. Join us in shaping the future of aerospace logistics while enjoying a culture that values diversity and inclusivity.
    AALTO

    Contact Detail:

    AALTO Recruiting Team

    StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

    We think this is how you could land Director, Product Support

    ✨Tip Number 1

    Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the aerospace industry, especially those who work at AALTO or similar companies. Use LinkedIn to connect and engage with them; you never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings.

    ✨Tip Number 2

    Prepare for interviews by researching AALTO's Zephyr platform and its logistics support strategies. Show us that you understand the role and can contribute to the team right from day one!

    ✨Tip Number 3

    Practice your STAR technique for answering behavioural questions. We want to hear about your past experiences in logistics and how you've tackled challenges in high-pressure environments.

    ✨Tip Number 4

    Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows us you're genuinely interested in being part of the AALTO team.

    We think you need these skills to ace Director, Product Support

    Strategic Planning
    Integrated Logistics Support (ILS)
    Logistics Management
    Aerospace Logistics
    Leadership
    Team Development
    Communication Skills
    Stakeholder Engagement
    Analytical Mindset
    Systems Thinking
    Logistics Modelling Tools
    Operational Decision-Making
    Compliance with Aerospace Standards
    Technical Documentation Development
    Continuous Improvement

    Some tips for your application 🫡

    Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Director, Product Support role. Highlight your experience in aerospace logistics and any leadership roles you've held. We want to see how your background aligns with our needs!

    Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about the Zephyr project and how your skills can contribute to our mission. Keep it engaging and relevant to the job description.

    Showcase Your Achievements: When detailing your experience, focus on specific achievements that demonstrate your strategic thinking and program management skills. Numbers and outcomes speak volumes, so don’t shy away from sharing your successes!

    Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team at AALTO!

    How to prepare for a job interview at AALTO

    ✨Know Your Stuff

    Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of Integrated Logistics Support (ILS) and the specific logistics challenges in aerospace. Familiarise yourself with AALTO's Zephyr platform and its operational context, as this will show your genuine interest and understanding of the role.

    ✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills

    As a Director, Product Support, you'll need to demonstrate strong leadership capabilities. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've successfully led cross-functional teams or managed complex logistics operations. Highlight how you foster collaboration and drive results.

    ✨Prepare for Scenario Questions

    Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills in high-pressure situations. Think about potential challenges in logistics support for the Zephyr system and how you would address them. This will showcase your analytical mindset and strategic thinking.

    ✨Engage with Questions

    At the end of the interview, have thoughtful questions ready for your interviewers. Ask about their current challenges in logistics support or how they envision the future of the Zephyr platform. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also helps you gauge if the company is the right fit for you.

    Director, Product Support
    AALTO

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