Sr. OEM Program Leader (USI8) (2575)

at VSE Aviation in Independence, Kansas, United States

Job Description

SUMMARY: The Senior OEM Program Leader for Engine Accessories oversees all aspects of managing the business between VSE and two major OEM partners.  This individual will have a complete market understanding along with high-level technical product expertise to produce deliverables to all internal and external stakeholders.  This will require cross-functional work with the following contributing groups: Supplier Management, Supply Chain, Production, Engineering, Quality, Operations, Customer Network Management, Legal, Finance, and others.  This individual is responsible for developing and executing long-term program strategies, strengthening customer partnerships, driving financial performance, and ensuring operational excellence across the program. 

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:  

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Single point of contact, face of VSE to major OEM partners.
• Responsible for understanding OEM requirements (technical, schedule, reporting) and ensuring they are met.  This requires working cross-functionally within VSE and externally as needed to pull together all deliverables on schedule.
• Develop a complete understanding of market dynamics and product lifecycle to help VSE maintain optimal processes and policies that will provide the most benefit to the program long-term.
• Key aspects include strategic network planning, contract development & negotiations, contract administration, partner site audits of systems and processes, internal financial tracking and reporting.
• Gather high-level engineering requirements and communicate internally to VSE program team.  
• Work cross functionally internally and with MRO network to develop and communicate product improvements, push through to approval with OEM partners.
• Worldwide travel to OEM, supplier facilities, tradeshows, etc.  
• Provide strategic oversight of all program deliverables, ensuring alignment with customer expectations, contractual requirements, and organizational objectives.
• Develop and maintain executive-level relationships with OEM leadership, suppliers, and strategic stakeholders.
• Lead strategic planning activities including capacity planning, demand forecasting, risk management, and long-range program roadmaps.
• Monitor program financial performance, including revenue, profitability, cost management, forecasts, and key performance indicators.
• Present program updates, financial performance, risks, and strategic recommendations to executive leadership.
• Lead continuous improvement initiatives focused on operational excellence, customer experience, and program scalability.
• Coordinate supplier assessments, OEM audits, and customer reviews to ensure compliance with contractual and regulatory requirements.
• Mentor and provide guidance to Program Leaders and cross-functional team members.
• Represent VSE at customer meetings, supplier facilities, industry conferences, and trade shows worldwide.
• Other duties as assigned

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:  

• Bachelor’s degree 
  • OR an additional 3 years of specific work experience in lieu of degree.
• 6 years of relevant/technical work experience.
• Demonstrated ability to influence a diverse list of Stakeholders and VSE internal teams to successful delivery outcomes.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, including Word, Excel, Outlook and scheduling applications
• Experience negotiating commercial agreements and long-term customer contracts.
• Strong written and oral communication skills
• Knowledge of FAA regulations, aerospace quality systems, and AS9100 standards.

PREFERRED REQUIREMENTS:

• Master’s degree in business, customer service, supply chain or equivalent experience 
• 10+ years prior experience of progressive leadership in aviation MRO/OEM industry
• 6+ years of large-scale program management experience
• 6+ years in the aviation industry  
• Proficient in the use of Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel 
• Strong critical thinking and analytical skills
• Project Management Professional (PMP), ASCM/APICS, or similar certification preferred 

OTHER:

• The selected applicant will be subject to a background check and drug testing.