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General Manager- Actuation North America

Job details

General information

Entity

Safran is an international high-technology group, operating in the aviation (propulsion, equipment and interiors), defense and space markets. Its core purpose is to contribute to a safer, more sustainable world, where air transport is more environmentally friendly, comfortable and accessible. Safran has a global presence, with 100,000 employees and sales of 27.3 billion euros in 2024, and holds, alone or in partnership, world or regional leadership positions in its core markets.

Safran is in the 2nd place in the aerospace and defense industry in TIME magazine's "World's best companies 2024" ranking.

Safran Electronics & Defense offers its customers onboard intelligence solutions allowing them to understand the environment, reduce mental load and guarantee a trajectory, even in critical situations, in all environments: on land, at sea, in the sky or space. The company harnesses the expertise of its 13,000 employees towards these three functions: observe, decide and guide, for the civil and military markets.

Reference number

2025-163560

Job details

Domain

Performance and Support

Job field / Job profile

General managers - General manager

Job title

General Manager- Actuation North America

Employment type

Permanent

Professional category

Professional, Engineer & Manager

Part time / Full time

Full-time

Job description

Position Summary:

The General Manager, Actuation North America is a visionary and results-oriented leader responsible for directing all activities covering program management, supply chain, quality, engineering, and business development for the Safran Electronics & Defense Actuation Global Business Unit across North America. This role will drive operational excellence, spearhead business growth initiatives, ensure compliance with stringent industry regulations (FAA, ITAR, AS9100), and foster innovation while maintaining the highest standards of safety, quality, and efficiency.

Key Responsibilities:

Strategic and Transformational Leadership:

• Develop and execute strategies that support the growth and value creation for Actuation Global Business Unit in North America

• Lead the transformation of Actuation activity, the relocation into new premises, the integration into SED America in close cooperation with Senior Leadership team of SED America and Actuation GBU

• Oversee the industrial transfers of OE and AFM activities from Collins sites to Safran sites in close cooperation with the customers.

• Lead continuous improvement initiatives to optimize operational performance and cost competitiveness.

Business Development, Program Management & Innovation:

• Identify, develop, and pursue new business opportunities to expand the actuation product line's market share and revenue in North America.

• Oversee program management activities ensuring successful execution of projects from inception through delivery, meeting customer expectations on cost, schedule, and quality.

• Build and maintain strong relationships with key customers, partners, and industry stakeholders to drive business growth.

• Foster a culture of innovation by driving the development and implementation of advanced actuation technologies and process improvements.

• Collaborate with R&D and Engineering teams to commercialize new solutions that meet evolving customer and regulatory demands.

Quality & Compliance:

• Ensure full compliance with aerospace quality standards, regulatory requirements, and export controls (ITAR/EAR).

• Lead efforts to maintain and improve quality certifications and audit readiness.

• Implement corrective and preventive actions for operational non-conformances.

Supply Chain & Supplier Performance Management:

• Manage supply chain operations with a focus on achieving the highest standard of performance for our customers, cost reduction, and risk mitigation.

• Build and maintain strong relationships with key suppliers and subcontractors in aerospace manufacturing.

• Oversee inventory control, procurement strategies, and logistics.

But what else? (advantages, specificities, etc.)

1. Must be authorized to work in the United States without company sponsorship.

2. This position requires use of information or access to hardware which is subject to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). All applicants be U.S. persons within the meaning of ITAR. ITAR defines a U.S. person as a U.S. citizen, U.S. permanent resident (i.e. green card holder), political asylee or refugee

Safran is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic under applicable federal, state, or local law.

We are committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and respectful workplace where all employees feel valued and empowered to contribute fully.

Candidate skills & requirements

Team Leadership & Development:

• Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing operations team skilled in aerospace production, program management, and regulatory requirements.

• Foster a culture of safety, accountability, innovation, and continuous improvement.

• Promote cross-functional collaboration with engineering, quality, and program teams.

Financial Management:

• Prepare and manage operational budgets aligned with business goals.

• Analyze operational metrics to improve productivity and cost efficiency.

• Partner with Finance on forecasting, capital expenditure, and financial reporting.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in aerospace engineering, Industrial Engineering, Business, or related field (MBA preferred).

• 10+ years of leadership experience in aerospace operations, manufacturing, supply chain, program management, and business development.

• Deep knowledge of aerospace regulations (FAA, ITAR, AS9100) and compliance standards.

• Proven track record in lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, or continuous improvement methodologies.

• Experience managing complex aerospace production environments, including suppliers and subcontractors.

• Strong financial management and budgeting skills.

• Exceptional leadership, communication, and interpersonal abilities.

• Proficient in ERP/MRP systems and operational data analysis tools.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with aerospace program management and contract manufacturing.

• Certification in Lean Six Sigma, PMP, or similar process improvement methodologies.

• Familiarity with defense/aerospace government contracting and compliance.

• Ability to manage global operations and cross-border supply chains.

Annual salary

Based on Market Rate

Job location

Job location

North America, United States, Illinois

City (-ies)

4747 Harrison Ave, M/S 298-6 61108 Rockford

Applicant criteria

Minimum education level achieved

Bachelor's Degree

Minimum experience level required

More than 8 years

ITAR Controlled Position: Select "Yes" if role requires U.S. citizenship/permanent residency

Yes