Depot Operations Manager

Overview

We are seeking a proven leader to transform and scale our depot repair operations. This role will own the end-to-end execution of depot-level repair, troubleshooting down to the component level, and will be accountable for building a disciplined, predictable, and scalable repair system.

The Depot Operations Manager will rebuild process into a best-in-class operation that supports growth, quality, and customer commitments.

This is a change agent role.

Description:

* Operational Leadership

• Own the execution of all depot maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) programs from intake to shipment.
• Establish daily/weekly scheduling discipline for MRO work, tied to part availability and contract deliverables.
• Ensure turnaround time, throughput, and quality performance meet or exceed program and customer expectations.

* Process Transformation

• Map current-state flows and rebuild them into structured, repeatable processes.
• Codify tribal knowledge into standard troubleshooting guides, repair playbooks, and work instructions including commonality across all MRO / Depot programs.
• Drive standardization and simplification in how repair work is planned, documented, and executed.

* Workforce Development & Knowledge Capture

• Capture expertise from senior technicians before retirement and convert it into permanent training assets.
• Stand up an apprentice/junior technician pipeline to ensure sustainability of the workforce.
• Create career pathways and training plans for repair personnel.

* Cross-Functional Integration

• Partner with New Build Operations and Supply Chain to align on repair part availability and sourcing.
• Partner with Engineering to resolve recurring failure modes and improve test coverage.
• Interface with Program Management and senior leadership to provide transparency on repair execution status.

* Performance Management

• Define and implement key metrics: turnaround time, backlog visibility, first-pass yield, rework rates.
• Stand up visual dashboards and reports to track repair health at all levels.
• Lead continuous improvement efforts to reduce cycle time and increase throughput.

education / Certifications:

* Bachelors in related field

* Must have the ability to obtain a U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) Secret Clearance, which requires U.S. citizenship.

experience:

* 10+ years of leadership experience in Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul, depot sustainment, or component-level troubleshooting (aerospace/defense preferred).

* Demonstrated success in organizational transformation – continuous improvements in processes and approaches for cost and schedule optimization enabling scaling for growth.

* Strong technical foundation in electronic/mechanical troubleshooting and repair.

* Proven experience implementing scheduling, process control, and workforce development systems.

* Familiarity with industry standards/regulations (AS9100, ISO, FAA/DoD depot practices).

* Excellent communication and leadership skills with the ability to reset culture and drive accountability.

* Experience with SAP S4/HANA or similar ERP/MRP repair scheduling environments.

* Prior responsibility for leading a depot or repair team through major growth.

* Lean/Six Sigma or continuous improvement certifications.

* Experience bridging the gap between shop floor technicians, engineering, supply chain, program management, and executive leadership.