Chief Manager - Aircraft Acquisition

Position Title: Chief Manager - Aircraft Acquisition

Grade: Chief Manager

Function: Commercial

Location: Gurugram

Reports to: AVP - Aircraft Acquisition

Job Purpose

Lead Air India's engine acquisition and commercial partnerships function as the airline executes a large-scale fleet renewal program. This is a senior commercial role responsible for structuring and negotiating long-term agreements with engine OEMs and MRO partners - including CFM/Safran, GE Aerospace, Rolls-Royce, Pratt & Whitney etc. - as well as with lessors. The role involves managing complex, high-value supplier relationships over multi-year horizons and working closely with senior leadership on decisions that bear directly on Air India's operational readiness and cost structure.

Key Accountabilities

Fleet Engine Strategy & Commercial Execution

- Implement the procurement strategy for engines from OEMs in accordance with organizational requirements

- Manage competitive bids and negotiate favorable terms and conditions with engine manufacturers, lessors, and financial institutions.

- Evaluate engine performance data, lease rates, and financing options to optimize fleet planning and investment decisions.

- Monitor lease agreements and ensure compliance with contractual obligations.

Supplier Agreement & Partnership Management

- Oversee management of contracts between the airline and the OEM. This includes negotiating terms, ensuring compliance with contractual obligations, and resolving any disputes that may arise

- Closely coordinate with Legal, Engineering, Finance teams to be responsible for drafting and execution of OEM & other Major contracts

Team Leadership & Commercial Direction

- Set clear performance goals for the team and build a culture of commercial accountability, continuous improvement, and delivery.

- Lead cross-functional teams to execute strategic initiatives and achieve departmental objectives.

- Provide mentorship and guidance to team members, fostering a culture of continuous learning and professional development.

- Conduct performance evaluations and provide feedback to enhance team performance and productivity.

Cross Functional & External Stakeholder Management

- Cultivate and maintain relationships with internal stakeholders, including Fleet Management, Finance, Flight Operations, Tax and Legal departments.

- Collaborate with Engineering and Maintenance teams to ensure alignment between engine acquisition and maintenance plans

- Liaise with external partners, such as engine manufacturers, and lessors to facilitate smooth operations and resolve issues as needed.

- Manage the financial aspects of the relationship with OEMs including budgeting, invoicing, and cost control.

- Work with the Head, Engine OEMs to manage teams and ensure timely and smooth operations

Operational Insights

- Conduct risk assessments and implement mitigation measures to address potential engine-related safety and operational risks in coordination with Engineering teams.

- Monitor the performance of the engines supplied by the OEM to the airline, including reliability, maintenance requirements, and fuel efficiency.

Any other additional responsibility could be assigned to the role holder from time to time as a standalone project or regular work. The same would be suitably represented in the Primary responsibilities and agreed between the incumbent, reporting officer and HR.

Skills/Qualities Required

- Aviation Commercial & Contractual Expertise

- Financial Modelling & Investment Analysis

- Structured Problem Solving & Decision Analytics

- Executive Communication & Negotiation

- Strategic Supplier & Partnership Management

- Team Leadership & Commercial Direction

- Programme & Delivery Management

- Critical Thinking & Financial Acumen

Key Interfaces

Internal Interfaces

Fleet Management:

- Collaborate on fleet planning, engine leasing and utilization strategies.

Finance Department:

- Coordinate on budgeting, financing, and financial analysis related to engine operations.

Engineering and Maintenance:

- Ensure alignment between engine acquisition & maintenance plans.

External Interfaces

Engine Manufacturers:

- Negotiate engine purchase, lease, and maintenance agreements.

Lessors:

- Facilitate lease agreements and negotiations for engine acquisition.

Regulatory Agencies:

- Ensure compliance with aviation regulations and safety standards.

MRO Providers:

- Coordinate engine maintenance and repair activities with external service providers.

Educational and Experience Requirements

Minimum Education requirements

- Masters/MBA/PGDM/PGP/PG degree, Aviation Management, Business Administration, or a related field

Experience

Minimum :

- 10+ years of experience in commercial aviation or related roles with a strong track record in supplier commercial negotiations, long term contract management

- Prior experience in senior or leadership roles with demonstrated success in strategic planning and stakeholder management.

Desired:

- Master's degree in aviation management, , or related field.

- Experience working in the airline industry, particularly with aircraft acquisition/procurement functions.

- Track record of successful negotiation and execution of engine acquisition and financing deals.

- Experience in managerial or supervisory roles

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