Head of Engineering

About the RoleWe are seeking a senior technical expert to lead strategy and drive transformation through the coordination of teams implementing innovative engineering and reliability projects. These initiatives will leverage data-driven and AI-enabled tools, as well as other advanced digital technologies, to optimise engineering and reliability processes within the airline's Technical Operations.Please note this is not a data science or IT development role. The successful candidate will act as a Subject Matter Expert (SME), working closely with AI labs, data scientists, and operational experts to guide the development and integration of AI-powered tools and other innovative technologies. The emphasis is on applying these solutions to drive business transformation within Technical Operations and Maintenance, Repair & Overhaul (MRO) functions.Key focus areas will include:Optimisation of reliability analytics and failure detectionDevelopment of predictive maintenance capabilities and toolsDeployment of technician copilots to support engineers and ground techniciansDevelopment of integrated reliability dashboardsMonitoring and follow-up of continuous improvement maintenance actions arising from the above tools.The role aims to enhance safety, increase aircraft availability, and optimise maintenance costs. It requires a strong understanding of airline maintenance processes and supply chain dynamics, combined with the ability to bridge the gap between maintenance and engineering technical teams, operational stakeholders, and the AI lab and data scientists.The successful candidate will act as a key facilitator, ensuring that innovative tools and models are developed collaboratively and in alignment with operational realities and strategic business needs. This is a strategic leadership position that brings digital transformation into one of the most safety-critical and capital-intensive areas of the airline industry, ensuring that technological innovation is both practical and impactful.Key ResponsibilitiesDefine and execute the airline group's digital transformation roadmap for reliability management.Coordinate cross-functional teams across engineering, line/base maintenance, operations, and digital/tech units to ensure alignment and adoption of AI-enabled solutions.Lead the deployment of AI-powered tools for reliability monitoring and performance analysis.Drive the use of reliability analytics to identify component wear trends, failure patterns, and root causes, implementing data-driven improvement initiatives.Deploy AI- and data-powered tools for predictive modelling and reliability dashboards.Validate use cases and ensure scalability of reliability solutions across multiple operating companies (OpCos).Engage stakeholders and foster change management to embed reliability-focused practices into operational workflows.Monitor and communicate KPIs to demonstrate impact on safety, reliability, operational performance, and cost efficiency.Required Qualifications & ExperienceDegree in Aeronautical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related technical discipline.Extensive experience in aircraft engineering and reliability management within an airline, MRO, OEM, or aviation regulatory body.Native / Bilingual in English.Ideal Candidate ProfileStrong knowledge of reliability engineering methodologies, predictive maintenance tools, and regulatory frameworks (EASA Part-M, Part-CAMO, FAA equivalents).Proven track record of leading transformation or digitalisation projects in reliability or operational environments.Ability to bridge engineering expertise with data/AI-driven innovation.Proficiency in data analytics tools and reliability management systems.Strategic mindset with excellent stakeholder management and communication skills.Passion for driving innovation and digital transformation in the aviation industry.What We OfferThe opportunity to accelerate your career at the forefront of predictive reliability and digital transformation, leading high-impact projects across a global aviation group.Continuous development of technical, leadership, and digital skills in a collaborative environment that fosters innovation and professional growth.