Manager, Strategic Planning

De Havilland Aircraft of Canada Limited; Calgary; On-site; CAD 80,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player in aerospace is seeking a Manager of Strategic Planning to drive long-term strategic initiatives and governance. This pivotal role involves collaborating with senior leadership to evaluate market trends and new business opportunities, while also leading the development of key performance indicators. The ideal candidate will possess strong analytical skills, a passion for aerospace, and a proven track record of influencing stakeholders. Join a dedicated team committed to quality and innovation, and help shape the future of aviation with your strategic insights.

Qualifications

• 7+ years in strategic planning or corporate development, ideally in aerospace.
• Experience in leading governance frameworks and KPI development.

Responsibilities

• Lead development of long-term strategic plans aligned with corporate goals.
• Manage central governance function and enterprise-wide strategic initiatives.

Skills

Strategic Planning

Governance Frameworks

KPI Development

Market Analysis

Project Management

Communication Skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Business

MBA or equivalent

Job description

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.

The Manager, Strategic Planning will play a critical role in shaping De Havilland's long-term direction by supporting executive leadership with insights, analysis, and actionable strategies. This individual will lead central governance efforts, ensure strategic alignment across the organization, and oversee the development and monitoring of key performance indicators (KPIs), annual objectives, and strategic initiatives. The ideal candidate is a forward-thinking leader with a passion for aerospace and a strong ability to align strategy with business operations.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development and support the execution of De Havilland’s long-term strategic plans in alignment with corporate goals.
• Drive and manage the organization’s central governance function, including the development and implementation of corporate KPIs, annual objectives, and enterprise-wide strategic initiatives.
• Partner with senior leadership to evaluate new business opportunities, market trends, and industry developments.
• Conduct comprehensive internal and external analysis, including SWOT, PESTLE, competitive benchmarking, and scenario planning.
• Facilitate annual strategic planning and budgeting cycles across departments.
• Track and report on progress of strategic initiatives and KPIs, providing insights and recommendations to drive performance.
• Prepare executive-level presentations and briefing materials for internal and external stakeholders
• Foster collaboration across cross-functional teams to ensure alignment and engagement in strategy execution.
• Support M&A activities, joint ventures, and strategic partnerships as needed.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Economics, Engineering, or related field (MBA or equivalent preferred).
• 7+ years of progressive experience in strategic planning, corporate development, or management consulting—ideally within aerospace, manufacturing, or a related industry.
• Demonstrated experience leading governance frameworks, KPI development, and enterprise performance tracking.
• Excellent communication and presentation abilities with a track record of influencing senior stakeholders.
• Proven experience managing cross-functional projects with multiple stakeholders.
• Knowledge of aerospace industry dynamics and regulatory environment is a strong asset.
• High level of integrity, organizational agility, and strategic thinking.

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.