The Chief Automation and Avionics Officer is a senior executive responsible for the strategic leadership, integration, and performance of automation systems and avionics technologies across aerospace programs. This role oversees research, development, compliance, and deployment of mission-critical flight control, navigation, and onboard automation systems to ensure aircraft safety, innovation, and regulatory alignment.
Automation Strategy Development – Lead vision, architecture, and implementation strategies for autonomous flight systems, cockpit automation, and intelligent avionics platforms.
Avionics Systems Oversight – Oversee avionics integration, systems certification, and compliance with international aviation standards (FAA, EASA, DO-178C, DO-254).
Innovation & R&D Leadership – Direct advanced research in flight control software, fly-by-wire systems, sensor fusion, and AI-based decision systems for aerospace applications.
Cross-Functional Collaboration – Partner with engineering, airworthiness, software, systems, and product teams to ensure seamless integration of avionics with platform design.
Regulatory Compliance & Safety – Ensure automation and avionics systems meet all applicable airworthiness, safety, and cybersecurity standards.
Set long-term strategy for avionics and automation aligned with company goals for manned and unmanned aircraft systems.
Lead cross-disciplinary teams in design, validation, and deployment of avionics hardware and automation software.
Oversee vendor and technology selection for avionics components including FMS, ADIRU, EICAS, transponders, and radar systems.
Ensure successful integration of AI-driven diagnostics, predictive maintenance, and onboard monitoring technologies.
Serve as the primary executive liaison with regulatory bodies, industry groups, and OEM partners.
Evaluate new technologies and direct investments in next-generation avionics and flight control innovations.
Represent the company in aerospace industry forums, government panels, and safety committees.
Master’s or Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering, Avionics, Electrical Engineering, or related technical field.
15+ years of progressive leadership experience in aerospace systems, avionics engineering, or flight automation development.
In-depth understanding of DO-178C, DO-254, ARP4754A, and ARINC 429/653/661 standards.
Proven experience managing large engineering teams and multi-program avionics portfolios.
Strategic leadership and executive-level decision-making.
Deep technical knowledge of avionics architectures and flight automation systems.
Strong regulatory and safety systems acumen.
Excellent communication, stakeholder management, and innovation leadership.
High-level risk management and systems thinking in mission-critical environments.