Avionics Business Development Strategist

De Havilland Aircraft of Canada Limited (DHC) is a storied name in the aerospace industry, recognized worldwide for its pioneering contributions to aviation and its unwavering commitment to quality, innovation, and reliability. Headquartered in Calgary, AB, DHC currently has approximately 1,400 employees across British Columbia, Alberta and Ontario, as well as in markets and distribution hubs world-wide.

Established in 1928, De Havilland Canada has a rich history marked by the development of some of the most iconic and versatile aircraft ever built. These aircraft have served a variety of roles—from bush flying to commercial aviation—and are celebrated for their rugged durability, operational versatility, and excellence in performance.

Over the decades, De Havilland Canada has evolved to meet the changing needs of the aviation industry. Today, we are more than just an aircraft manufacturer; we are a comprehensive aerospace company with capabilities that span design, production, maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services. Our operations are supported by a team of skilled engineers, technicians, and industry professionals who are dedicated to upholding the highest standards of craftsmanship and innovation.

Reporting to the Director of Avionics Programs, the Avionics Business Development Strategist role focuses on the strategic development and growth of avionics programs, supporting new business opportunities, managing relationships, and guiding the company toward achieving its business goals.

Key Responsibilities:

Business Strategy and Planning:

• Support the assessment of market trends, customer needs, and competitive landscapes within the avionics industry. Analyze opportunities and threats to ensure the company can capitalize on emerging trends.
• Lead efforts to develop and propose new avionics programs, products, or services that align with the company's strategic goals.
• Identify and negotiate partnerships with other companies, government agencies, and defense organizations for collaborative avionics projects.
• Develop and present detailed business plans and proposals for new avionics programs, ensuring they align with the company’s vision and goals.
  
  
  

Sales and Revenue Growth:

• Approach and secure new clients, both in the private and government sectors, who are interested in avionics products or services.
• Support the development of sales forecasts and projections based on market trends and customer demands. Ensure that business development efforts contribute to the company's revenue targets.
• Maintain and grow relationships with existing clients and partners, ensuring continued satisfaction and identifying opportunities for further business.
  
  
  

Project Management and Execution:

• Ensure commercial aspects of avionics programs are managed closely to meet customer requirements.
• Work closely with engineering, operations, and finance teams to align business development efforts with the company’s operational capabilities and financial objectives.
• Identify risks associated with new business opportunities and work with internal teams to mitigate them.
  
  
  

Stakeholder Communication and Reporting:

• Regularly update senior leadership on the status of business development efforts, providing clear metrics and analysis of progress.
• Represent the company at industry events, conferences, and trade shows to promote products, services, and capabilities in the avionics sector.
• Maintain high-level interactions with key customers, understanding their evolving needs and ensuring the company's solutions are tailored to meet these needs.
  
  
  

Compliance and Regulatory Knowledge:

• Stay current on industry regulations, certifications, and safety standards that affect the avionics business, ensuring all business development efforts comply with relevant guidelines.
• Manage and oversee the submission of proposals and bids for government contracts or large-scale aviation programs.
  
  
  

Required Skills and Qualifications:

• 8+ years of experience combined with a deep understanding of avionics technologies, systems, and the aerospace sector.
• Proven experience in business development, sales, or program management within the aerospace or defense industries.
• Strong negotiation skills to secure contracts and partnerships.
• Experience leading teams and driving business initiatives.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills to engage with both internal teams and external clients.
• Familiarity with avionics systems, products, and industry-specific technologies is essential.
• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, specializing in Avionics business, or a related field.
  
  
  

At De Havilland Aircraft of Canada (DHC), we are committed to protecting our people, customers, shareholders and the public through Health & Safety Excellence. As such, it is expected that all employees maintain strict adherence to Health & Safety Policies and to perform key physical tasks of the position described in the job description and interview process. This may include but is not limited to the ability to work in a variety of environmental conditions including temperature extremes, confined spaces, working at heights and with or around chemicals. Employees are expected to adhere to the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) when at work which must include but is not limited to the ability to maintain a positive fit test when mask use is required.

At De Havilland Canada, we aim to be inclusive and diverse and provide equal opportunity for employment. All qualified applicants, regardless of gender, age, race, religion, sexual orientation, and disability, are encouraged to apply. De Havilland will accommodate the needs of applicants with disabilities throughout all stages of the selection process. If you need accommodation during the recruitment process, please advise your Talent Acquisition representative. Information relating to the need for accommodation and accommodation measures will be addressed confidentially.

Any offer of employment is conditional on the completion of positive and satisfactory background checks, which may include, proof that you are legally entitled to work in Canada, professional references, verification of employment history, verification of educational background and criminal background checks.