GM- Civil

About you:

This is a role for a rare kind of operator — someone who can translate deep credibility in the aviation community into measurable business outcomes. As General Manager, Civil & Strategic programs you will own the P&L and be accountable for one clear output: revenue growth . You’ll lead Merlin’s civil and OEM programs, driving growth through partnerships, delivery, certification and sustainment. Own and manage the Civil and OEM portfolio, accountable for growth, profitability, and long-term value. Your success will be defined by building and closing a pipeline of opportunities, securing wins with civil and OEM customers. You’re equally comfortable shaping senior-level customer requirements as you are driving internal teams to deliver programs with precision. Above all, you bring the presence, relationships, and execution discipline to turn market opportunities into lasting revenue for Merlin.

Responsibilities

• Generate revenue by building and closing a robust pipeline, leading capture efforts, and securing wins that directly contribute to Merlin’s growth.
• Shape customer requirements by engaging with senior stakeholders, translating mission priorities into actionable program and product strategies in close collaboration with the Chief Product Officer.
• In conjunction with the Chief Technical Officer and Chief Product Officer, guide technical development and demonstration to address customer operational challenges and increase probability of capture.
• Own and manage P&L for the OEMs and Civil business, ensuring consistent revenue growth, profitability, and long-term value creation.
• Provide portfolio-level leadership across all OEMs and Civil programs, with oversight of financials, staffing, schedules, and risk management in partnership with Program Management and Finance.
• Serve as Merlin’s executive presence with customers and partners, representing the company at forums, engagements, and strategic events to strengthen visibility, trust, and influence.
• Foster cross‑functional collaboration by driving accountability across execution teams and partnering effectively with Capture, BD, Program Management, Finance, and Product functions.

Qualifications

• Proven track record of owning and managing P&L ($50M+) in defense, aerospace, or a high‑tech environment.
• Deep understanding of Aerospace OEMs and Civil markets, mission sets, and operational culture.
• Understanding of civil certification processes (e.g., STCs).
• Demonstrated success in business development, capture management, and customer engagement with senior military leaders.
• Experience leading cross‑functional teams in fast‑paced, mission‑driven environments.

Nice to have

• Active U.S. security clearance (Secret or higher).
• Experience standing up Fleet operations.
• Executive presence with strong influencing and relationship‑building skills.
• Experience positioning new technology solutions within the ecosystem and turning them into revenue‑producing programs.