Top Aces is a privately owned, Montreal-based global leader in aerospace and defence founded in 2000 by three former Royal Canadian Air Force CF-18 fighter pilots. We provide advanced adversary air (ADAIR) and joint terminal attack controller (JTAC) training services to allied forces around the globe, including Canada, Germany and the USA.
Top Aces is changing the face of air combat training with our innovative technology, highly experienced team and an unparalleled safety record of more than 125 000 operational training hours flown in support of our customers worldwide. Our dynamic team contributes to delivering on our purpose of training the next generation of combat leaders by living our values of Service, Integrity, Excellence, and Together every day!
Join us!
VP (EUROPE)
The VP Europe is responsible for ensuring operational excellence for all European programs, fostering key relationships within the defense industry and driving growth. They are accountable for all program P&L, contract execution, customer satisfaction, budget planning and execution, safety and employee engagement. They have oversight of and will collaborate with Program Managers who will hold primary accountability for contract and regulatory compliance, environmental health and safety, facilities and manpower management for each Program. The VP Europe will support PMs as needed with Customer liaison, and support BD with European growth partner relations.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
Develop and execute a comprehensive business strategy to achieve revenue and profitability targets. Collaborate with senior leadership to align European operations with overall corporate goals and objectives. Lead and inspire a high-performing team, ensuring effective communication and collaboration across functions. Ensure the delivery of service and financial performance for each of the European programs. Ensure a complete understanding of program Performance Specification, Terms and Conditions, binding documents and related regulations. Support Program Managers with customer Program Review Meetings and rectification of deficiencies, as required. Ensure collaboration between European programs and Technical Services in order to maintain necessary service levels in accordance with the Service Level Agreement. Collaborate with PMs and the Global Safety organization to ensure safe and compliant operations. Ensure compliance with European regulatory requirements and industry standards. Monitor and report on key performance indicators, providing regular updates to executive leadership. Foster a culture of innovation and continuous improvement to enhance service delivery and client satisfaction. Establish and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders in the European military and defense sectors. Represent the company at industry events, conferences, and with government agencies. Advisory role on Airworthiness council. Support the Business Development Team and identify new business opportunities and partnerships to expand the company's footprint in the European market. Other related duties may be assigned.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
Bachelors degree in Business Administration, Engineering or other related field or 15 years of comparable experience Minimum ten (10) years of experience with military flight and maintenance operations either as an Engineer or flight crew Minimum five (5) years of supervisory experience with a national air force in aviation related positions Minimum five (5) years of experience as a program manager within the last 10 years Strong business acumen with a track record of successfully driving revenue growth and achieving financial targets Proven leadership experience in a senior management role overseeing complex projects and large multifunctional teams Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build and maintain relationships at all levels Strategic thinker with the ability to develop and execute effective business plans Knowledge of Project Management, Supervision of Flight Operations and Aircraft Maintenance, Financial Knowledge and Budgeting Skills In-depth knowledge of the European defense industry, including relevant policies, regulations, and procurement processes Knowledge of Airworthiness processes with relevant defense organizations,, EASA, Transport Canada, FAA., Security Management, and ITAR. Military and civilian maintenance. Quality Control. General knowledge of business operations and local legislation.
Education and/or Work Experience Requirements:
Bachelors degree in Business Administration, Engineering or other related field or 15 years of comparable experience Minimum ten (10) years of experience with military flight and maintenance operations either as an Engineer or flight crew Minimum five (5) years of supervisory experience with a national air force in aviation related positions Minimum five (5) years of experience as a program manager within the last 10 years Strong business acumen with a track record of successfully driving revenue growth and achieving financial targets Proven leadership experience in a senior management role overseeing complex projects and large multifunctional teams Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build and maintain relationships at all levels Strategic thinker with the ability to develop and execute effective business plans Knowledge of Project Management, Supervision of Flight Operations and Aircraft Maintenance, Financial Knowledge and Budgeting Skills In-depth knowledge of the European defense industry, including relevant policies, regulations, and procurement processes Knowledge of Airworthiness processes with relevant defense organizations,, EASA, Transport Canada, FAA., Security Management, and ITAR. Military and civilian maintenance. Quality Control. General knowledge of business operations and local legislation.
Working Conditions
Regular travel required
Supervisory Responsibilities:
Supervisory responsibilities include but are not limited to: Health and safety, training, mentoring and performance management
This position has the following direct reports:
Program Managers Sr Director Maintenance Heath and Safety Coordinator
This position has the following partners from support functions:
HR Business Partner Finance Business Unit Controller
Will be responsible for approving timesheets (if applicable) for these employees
Will be responsible for approving vacation requests and expense reports of all employees
Security Clearance Requirements/ CGP / ITAR:
Position requires controlled good clearance and Canadian Level 2 (secret) security clearance.
By joining Top Aces, you will find:
A work environment in which service, integrity, excellence and teamwork are highly valued; Opportunities for development and growth; Multidisciplinary and multicultural collaboration at a local and global level; A flexible schedule; Attractive benefit plan.
Come share your passion with us! Here, you’ll be encouraged, empowered, and challenged to be your best self.
Equal Employment Opportunity
At Top Aces, all employees are welcome regardless of race, nationality, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, disability or age. The masculine form may be used in this job description solely for ease of reading but refers to men, women and gender diversity.
#LI-LS1
