Program Manager

Advanced Military Maintenance Repair & Overhaul Center (AMMROC); Abu Dhabi Emirate; On-site; AED 120,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading aerospace maintenance organization in the UAE seeks a Program Manager to oversee the successful delivery of programs. The ideal candidate should have extensive experience in aerospace maintenance and program management, alongside strong leadership and analytical skills. Responsibilities include developing program management plans, leading project teams, and ensuring compliance with safety standards. This role offers a unique opportunity to contribute significantly to operational excellence and customer satisfaction.

Qualifications

• Minimum 10 – 12 years of experience in aerospace maintenance and aircraft operating environments.
• At least 5 years in program management or operations management capacity.
• Program Management Certification PMP, PRINCE2, or similar preferred.

Responsibilities

• Ensure alignment with AMMROC’s strategic, financial, and operational objectives.
• Oversee all phases of the program lifecycle from initiation to closure.
• Manage assigned programs, coordinating day-to-day delivery of work packages.

Skills

Program management

Risk management

Leadership

Communication

Analytical skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in aerospace maintenance or equivalent

Tools

MS Project

MS Office Suite

Job description

Job Objective

The Program Manager is responsible for the overall management and successful delivery of assigned programs and projects, ensuring alignment with AMMROC’s strategic, financial, and operational objectives. The role oversees all phases of the program lifecycle — from initiation and planning to execution, monitoring, and closure — to ensure that defined scope, schedule, cost, quality, and performance targets are consistently achieved. The Program Manager also contributes to the continuous improvement of program management processes and promotes cross-functional coordination to meet customer and business expectations.

Key Accountabilities

• Work closely with and under the direction of the Head of PMO in coordinating and providing direction to program planning and execution.
• Define and direct the execution of program and project goals, ensuring full alignment with contractual, operational, and customer requirements.
• Develop Program Charters, Program Management Plans (PMPs), and Integrated Master Schedules (IMS) covering cost, schedule, and performance baselines.
• Lead project teams and facilitate effective communication and interaction among team members to ensure smooth program execution.
• Manage assigned programs, and projects, overseeing day-to-day coordination and delivery of work packages.
• Provide advice and guidance to team members to ensure alignment and achievement of program objectives.
• Support the development and management of metrics and KPIs for program performance monitoring, reporting, and decision-making.
• Support the PMO Department in data gathering, analysis, and preparation of dashboards and reports to reflect accurate program performance and status.
• Ensure programs are monitored through performance indicators to provide management with clear visibility of progress, risks, and variances.
• Support the Program Business Rhythm framework to maintain governance discipline, minimize schedule and cost overruns, and ensure timely decision-making.
• Prepare presentations and executive reports summarizing status, performance, risks, and recommendations for internal and external stakeholders.
• Direct the development and management of program budgets, resource allocation, and financial forecasts.
• Recommend efficient budget planning and assist the Head of PMO in monitoring financial performance versus approved budgets.
• Identify cost variances, recommend corrective actions, and ensure opportunities for performance improvement are captured.
• Support Over & Above (O&A) documentation, invoicing, and closure to ensure accurate revenue realization.
• Manage high-level risks and develop mitigation and contingency plans to minimize projects/program impact.
• Identify and resolve program/projects issues through structured resolution plans.
• Analyze program data and translate it into actionable insights to support management decisions.
• Manage the effective achievement of team objectives by setting individual goals, managing performance, and providing continuous coaching and feedback.
• Develop and motivate employees through training and development programs to enhance proficiency and ensure consistent delivery.
• Monitor team performance through defined Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) and promote a culture of accountability and excellence.
• Continuously review current operational and program management processes to identify and implement improvement opportunities that enhance service, safety, cost performance, and efficiency.
• Support change initiatives, programs, and projects that reflect international best practices and align with AMMROC’s strategic goals.
• Ensure full compliance with AMMROC’s Safety, Quality, and Environmental Management (QEHS) policies, procedures, and standards.
• Promote a responsible environmental and safety culture within the team and across program operations.
• Prepare accurate and timely statements, performance reports, and presentations to meet AMMROC’s and departmental reporting standards.
• Support governance processes by ensuring programs are executed within defined PMO frameworks and internal audit requirements.
• Participate in internal and external reviews, audits, and customer progress meetings as required.
• Perform other related duties or assignments as directed by the Head of PMO or senior management to support AMMROC’s operational and strategic objectives.

Qualifications, Knowledge & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in aerospace maintenance or equivalent
• Minimum 10 – 12 years of experience in an aerospace maintenance and aircraft operating environment, preferably in military, of which at least 5 years in a similar position in program management or operations management capacity
• Program Management Certification PMP, PRINCE2, or equivalent certification preferred.
• Hands-on experience managing rotary-wing aircraft programs and familiarity with MRO project lifecycle processes desirable.
• Experience in Rotary aircraft (Sikorsky UH-60 Black Hawk platform) preferred.

English Language Communication Skills

• ELTS Band Score 6.5 or higher (or equivalent professional fluency).

Professional Skills

• Solid understanding of military aircraft operations and aerospace industry best practices.
• Demonstrated experience in Environment, Health & Safety (EHS) compliance within MRO or aerospace operations.
• Good exposure to cross-functional business processes, including Engineering, Quality, Finance, and Supply Chain.
• Strong program management capability covering planning, scheduling, cost control, and risk management.
• Proven financial and analytical skills, including cost forecasting, variance analysis, and performance reporting.
• Excellent planning, organizational, and integration abilities for managing complex programs and priorities.
• Ability to develop and implement policies, procedures, and standards aligned with organizational objectives.
• Effective leadership, coaching, and mentoring skills to motivate and develop high-performing teams.
• Strong consulting and stakeholder management capabilities, fostering collaboration across departments.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with tact, diplomacy, and interpersonal awareness.
• Strong presentation and reporting skills, with the ability to engage effectively at all organizational levels.
• Committed to customer service excellence and maintaining strong customer relationships.
• Advanced problem-solving and decision-making abilities, using structured and data-driven approaches.
• Strong data gathering, analytical, and attention-to-detail skills for accurate reporting and monitoring.
• Proficient in MS Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint), MS Project, and MS Visio.
• Familiar with ERP and PMO systems for project tracking, reporting, and performance analysis.