A sector in perpetual evolution, the aeronautics industry is faced with multiple challenges, sometimes difficult to meet internally. Whether it is to manage a crisis, to outsource a complex project or to replace a key executive, companies in the sector can call on an interim manager who is an expert in the industry to respond to their problems.

Let’s take a closer look at the 5 most requested transition functions in the aeronautics sector.

1. The Transitional DG for Aeronautics

The interim CEO, who is an expert in aeronautics, can be mandated to lead a strategic change project within the company: a restructuring, a merger-acquisition, crisis management, a CSR transition, an organizational change, etc.

Thanks to his external perspective, his sector know-how and his long career, this seasoned professional takes the reins of the company’s management for a period defined in advance, with great agility and immediate operational excellence.

In particular, the Interim CEO may intervene to temporarily replace, at short notice, a Director General who is leaving his or her position, or who has to be absent for an extended period of time.

2. The transitional CFO for aeronautics

The Chief Financial Officer (CFO) also plays a key role in the aviation industry, where investments are considerable and cost management is a central focus. The Interim CFO may be called upon to intervene in delicate situations such as Financial restructuring or a merger-acquisition. He will also be able to support the aeronautical company to strengthen and Optimize cash management in critical periods (reduction of margins due to production delays, fluctuations in raw material costs, etc.).

His role ranges from cost optimization to financial performance management, including the search for financing.

3. The Interim General Counsel for Aeronautics

The aeronautics industry is governed by strict regulations in terms of security, environmental compliance or intellectual property. With its in-depth knowledge of industry standards, Interim General Counsel is a strategic ally in managing complex regulatory compliance, litigation or litigation. He or she may also assist the company in a merger-acquisition project, in the opening or closing of a subsidiary or a production site abroad, or in the management of complex legal operations with major stakes (negotiating a contract, commercial agreements, strategic partnerships, etc.).

4. The Director of Transition Operations for Aeronautics

The Chief Operating Officer (COO) also plays a central role in a sector as technical as aeronautics. Responsible for production, he oversees the management of all Supply chain. It can intervene to meet production challenges (disruptions in the supply chain, delivery delays, shortage of raw materials, problems in inventory management, etc.

His intervention may consist of reviewing and optimizing all production management processes in order to strengthen the productivity of the teams, reduce delays and improve product quality. With its external view, it can also quickly identify bottlenecks and possible gaps along the supply chain, as well as the corrective solutions to be deployed. It is also suitable for Ensure the continuity of operations in times of crisis or disruption in the production cycle.

5. The interim HR director for the aeronautics sector

According to INSEE, the aerospace sector represents 7% of industrial jobs in France. However, following the health crisis, industry has been affected by a sharp drop in activity, which has generated, in 2021, a loss of 8% of the workforce. To facilitate the search for and retention of talent, limit turnover and compensate The labour shortage In this sector, the aeronautics company can call on a specialized interim HR director.

The latter will be able to help the company optimize its recruitment processes, enhance its employer brand, but also improve internal talent management. The interim Human Resources Director will also be a valuable ally in helping the company get through delicate periods: conducting a PSE (Employment Safeguard Plan, setting up new ways of organising work, improving QWL and employees’ working conditions, etc.).

Interim management for aeronautics: what are the advantages?

A highly qualified professional with a career of 15 to 25 years in prestigious positions, the interim manager intervenes for a period of 6 to 18 months, in order to respond to a targeted problem.

For the aeronautics company, it is an opportunity to benefit from targeted and proven technical expertise, but also from the external view of a professional experienced in the management of complex projects with various players in the aeronautics and aerospace sector (aircraft manufacturers, aeronautical equipment manufacturers, industrial subcontractors, manufacturers of components for aeronautics, etc.).

Are you looking for a CEO, CFO, COO, Interim General Counsel or any other expert in the aeronautics industry?

At WAYDEN, we identify, within our vast pool of experienced professionals, a high-flying interim manager, specialized in the aeronautics industry and equipped with the know-how and interpersonal skills necessary to respond to your problems and expectations. Immediately operational, he deploys, throughout his intervention, a methodology oriented towards the achievement of tangible and sustainable results.

Aeronautical interim management: focus on the most in-demand functions