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.
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