Manager Aircraft Programmes - IFE & Connectivity

Synopsis

Manage the specification, development, integration and delivery of In-Flight Entertainment (IFE), Connectivity and Digital Cabin Services for new and existing aircraft entering the Etihad fleet. Ensure that all onboard entertainment, connectivity and passenger technology solutions meet Etihad Guest Experience, Guest Services, Operational and Technical requirements.

Lead the development and implementation of Linefit and Retrofit IFE and Connectivity programmes, ensuring delivery to agreed scope, budget and schedule.

Coordinate and manage stakeholder requirements throughout the aircraft definition, development, certification and delivery phases, ensuring seamless integration of IFE and Connectivity systems into the fleet.

Accountabilities:

• Manage the IFE and Connectivity specification process with aircraft manufacturers, IFE suppliers, connectivity service providers and internal stakeholders including Guest Experience, Guest Services, Flight Operations, Digital Technology and Technical Operations to establish solutions that meet Etihad's business, operational and customer experience requirements.
• Define and manage IFE, Connectivity and Cabin Systems configuration requirements for new and used aircraft entering the fleet, ensuring all impacts to Operations, Engineering, Maintenance, Logistics and Guest Services are identified and addressed to support seamless fleet entry.
• Lead the end-to-end definition, development and integration of IFE systems, passenger connectivity services, onboard networks, content delivery platforms, wireless entertainment solutions and related cabin systems to deliver a world-class digital guest experience and support aircraft delivery schedules.
• Manage and coordinate the installation, testing, validation and entry-into-service activities for IFE and Connectivity systems at aircraft manufacturers and modification facilities, ensuring compliance with quality, certification and programme requirements.
• Manage the development, certification and execution of IFE and Connectivity upgrade, retrofit and enhancement programmes with design organisations, aircraft manufacturers, suppliers and internal stakeholders to ensure compliance with agreed specifications, schedules and quality standards.
• Lead supplier performance and relationship management activities for IFE and Connectivity providers, including system development, reliability improvement, service introduction, contractual reviews and ongoing product support.
• Support and assess initiatives related to onboard connectivity, streaming entertainment, digital passenger engagement, e-commerce enablement and emerging cabin technologies to support Etihad's customer experience and digital transformation objectives.
• Monitor IFE and Connectivity performance, reliability and guest satisfaction metrics, implementing continuous improvement initiatives to enhance service availability and operational effectiveness across the fleet.

• Bachelor's or Master's Degree in the field of Aeronautical, Mechanical or Electrical/Electronics engineering is required.
• Minimum 5 years' relevant experience, or 10 years' broader industry experience, in IFE and Connectivity programmes, cabin systems engineering, airline product development, aircraft modifications, technical commercial aviation or related aerospace disciplines.
• Strong project and programme management skills with experience leading cross-functional and multicultural teams in complex aviation environments.
• Formal training or demonstrated experience in IFE systems, connectivity technologies, satellite communications, aircraft cabin systems, systems integration and/or aircraft modification programmes is preferred.
• Up-to-date knowledge of aviation regulations, certification requirements, industry technology trends and airline business practices.
• Strong interpersonal, communication, negotiation and presentation skills with the ability to influence stakeholders across multiple organisations. Demonstrated strategic thinking, analytical capability, commercial awareness, innovation mindset and ability to deliver results in a dynamic environment.
• Demonstrated knowledge of IFE architectures, connectivity systems, satellite communications technologies, content management platforms, wireless networks, aircraft certification requirements and passenger digital experience solutions is highly desirable.

Etihad Airways is more than the UAE’s national airline - we’re shaping the future of global aviation. From our hub in Abu Dhabi, we connect people across continents and cultures, while driving our “Journey 2030” ambition to double our fleet, expand our network and grow our people for a new era of excellence. Join us and become part of a vision where the world is your workplace and extraordinary experiences take flight.

To learn more visit www.etihad.com

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