Technical Team - Project Management, Vice President

SMBC Group is a top-tier global financial group headquartered in Tokyo with a 400-year history, offering a diverse range of financial services including banking, leasing, securities, credit cards, and consumer finance. The Group operates over 130 offices with 80,000 employees across nearly 40 countries. In the Americas, SMBC Group serves corporate, institutional, and municipal clients with commercial and investment banking services, leveraging its extensive global network.

About the role

The successful candidate will join SMBC Aviation Services, Inc. (SMBC AS), a 100% owned subsidiary of SMBC America Holdings, Inc. This role supports SMBC Aviation Capital Limited (SMBC AC), an Irish entity, by providing counterparty and market research, developing business relationships, liaising with customers, offering technical advice, managing technical projects, and identifying deal opportunities in the Americas (North, South, and Central America).

The Technical Team is integral to delivering SMBC AC’s commercial strategy and managing customer relationships. Reporting to the EVP Technical in Miami, the VP Technical will be a key team member, contributing to a multi-disciplinary organization.

Responsibilities

• Feed into and implement strategic objectives set by the Head of Technical.
• Own and manage technical relationships as assigned by the EVP or Head of Technical.
• Project manage aircraft redeliveries, including budgeting, contractor management, customer liaison, Airworthiness Authority liaison, and MRO control.
• Negotiate LOIs/Leases for new and used aircraft to secure optimal outcomes for SMBC AC and its customers.
• Engage with industry participants to stay informed on technical issues related to SMBC AC’s fleet.
• Interface with internal departments to enhance understanding and measurement of risks associated with aircraft ownership.
• Engage and project manage consultants working on behalf of SMBC AC, ensuring access to top talent in the market.
• Collaborate with Airline Marketing to analyze transaction opportunities, recommending deal structures and risk mitigants to the CCO team and broader business.

Requirements

• A recognized degree in aeronautical or relevant engineering discipline, or an FAA/EASA licensed aircraft mechanics qualification with 5+ years’ experience in aircraft transition project management.
• Proven track record in collaboration and teamwork within a multicultural environment.
• Prior experience in an airline and/or MRO setting is essential.
• Familiarity with aircraft maintenance programs, modifications, reconfigurations, and technical records.
• Knowledge of aircraft lease documentation and maintenance risk exposure.
• Ability to manage multiple projects concurrently under tight timelines and budgetary constraints.
• Strong understanding of aviation and aircraft certification requirements, including associated regulations.
• Familiarity with aircraft technical publications such as AMMs, IPCs, Service Bulletins, and ADs.
• Willingness to travel extensively, occasionally at short notice.
• Flexibility in working hours to accommodate different time zones.
• High proficiency in Microsoft Office, particularly Excel (macros, data manipulation).
• Understanding of engine workscope planning documents is advantageous.

Schedule

SMBC operates under a hybrid workforce model, allowing employees to work both remotely and from the office. Employees must reside within a reasonable commuting distance of their assigned office location. Specific hybrid work schedules will be discussed during the interview process. Note that hybrid work may not be available for certain roles, such as FINRA-registered positions requiring full-time in-office attendance.