Manufacturing Manager - Defense Programs - Defense BU

Overview

Job Description Summary Reporting to the Business Unit Manufacturing Leader, as Manufacturing Manager for Defense Programs (AW249/T700, RB199, TP400, AE2100, LM2500 Navy) you will be the primary interface between Programs and Operations and will be accountable for program manufacturing execution and fulfillment. The role ensures, also mobilizing cross functional teams, Delivery outcomes in alignment with Customer expectations and target Cost according to Defense BU priorities.

Responsibilities

• Own program delivery performance and drives actions to eliminate delinquency and stabilize production flow; escalates to Sourcing commodities, Supplier Quality, Engineering to solve roadblocks.
• Support the Programs to mobilize cross-functionally shops, procurement, quality, engineering, commodities and PMO to protect customer outcomes.
• Escalate to Programs when risk release, priority allocation and/or trade off (quality, delivery, cost, design) are needed.
• Partner with the Programs in driving product cost out and managing the program inventory (strategic buffer needs, MRO stock level …).
• Provide program performance visibility through dashboards, tiered reviews, and inputs to the operating cadence (risks, actions, decisions).
• Contribute to continuous improvement on program delivery and cost.
• Act as the main Operations point of contact for the Defense Programs (AW249/T700, RB199, TP400, AE2100, LM2500) Navy ensuring customer demand and program requirements are correctly captured and translated into integrated production and fulfillment plans across sites and value streams.
• Own end-to-end fulfillment execution for Defense Programs (from order release to shipment), ensuring stability and adherence to plans.
• Collaborate with the Programs to launch, coordinate, and sustain problem-solving and recovery actions focused on on-time delivery, turnaround time and cost for the programs within the perimeter of responsibility.
• Identify supply chain and execution risks impacting delivery and cost, drives robust mitigation plans, tracking progress and effectiveness.
• Contribute to strategy deployment (Hoshin / HK) for the business unit by cascading program-specific into operational objectives, linking them to improvement actions and ensuring alignment between program priorities and shop floor execution.

Qualifications/Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree or master’s degree in Engineering or related field from an accredited university or college, or equivalent experience.
• Proven significant experience in manufacturing operations, program fulfillment, or production planning in aerospace/industrial environments.
• Strong understanding of SQDC metrics, shop KPI management, and action-plan rigor.
• Proven experience partnering with Quality on containment, root cause analysis, and defect reduction.
• Ability to manage shortages, prioritize critical parts, and drive supplier/material recovery actions.
• Experience with daily management, standard work, and structured problem solving.
• Strong cross-functional leadership and stakeholder management; able to drive results through influence.
• Clear, concise communicator; comfortable in operating reviews and escalation forums.
• Fluent in English and Italian.
• Work Visa, in accordance with local regulation, is required.

Benefits & Diversity

What we offer: smart working and work-life balance. Avio Aero promotes remote work where possible and supports a healthy work-life balance. We value wellbeing with programs aimed at psychological safety and daily needs. Total Rewards include performance-related bonuses, flexible benefits, life and injury insurance, private medical cover, employee assistance program, awards, local special agreements and discounts, and training in English and other languages, as well as technical and leadership development opportunities.

Equal Opportunity

Avio Aero is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer and we are committed to maintaining an inclusive and diverse environment. Employment decisions are made regardless of national or ethnic origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, etc.