We are recruiting on behalf of our client for an experienced Head of Battery & Energy Storage to lead battery development and qualification for an advanced aerospace programme.
Location: Dubai, UAE
Working Arrangement: Office-Based
The Mission
This is a leadership role focused on building the battery domain from the ground up, recruiting a specialised engineering team, establishing test capabilities, and delivering qualification evidence for a next-generation manned aircraft propulsion system.
The successful candidate will oversee cell characterisation, abuse testing, and propagation testing, ensuring that critical testing milestones are delivered safely and on schedule.
Key Responsibilities
Own programme planning, scheduling, budgeting, and supplier performance.
Establish battery testing facilities, equipment, procedures, and safety processes.
Lead pack architecture during the initial programme phase, including sizing, design reviews, and technical assessments.
Recruit, develop, and lead a specialised battery engineering team.
Balance engineering design activities with test campaign requirements.
Ensure the safe execution of high-voltage testing activities.
Coordinate interface commitments with Propulsion, Structures, and Airframe Integration teams.
Develop in-country capabilities for battery assembly and testing.
Manage long-lead suppliers and implement recovery plans when delivery performance falls short.
Oversee the complete battery development and qualification test campaign.
Requirements
12+ years of experience in battery or power systems engineering, including at least 5 years in airborne or safety-critical applications.
Proven experience delivering battery development through a complete test campaign, with accountability for planning and scheduling.
Experience establishing or significantly expanding battery testing facilities and capabilities.
Strong hands-on expertise in battery pack architecture, sizing, and layout.
Proven supplier management experience, particularly with long-lead components.
Experience in programme planning, cost estimation, budgeting, and delivery management.
Ability to operate effectively within a collaborative delivery and technical-authority structure.
Desirable Qualifications
Experience in eVTOL, electric propulsion, or hybrid-electric propulsion systems.
Experience building engineering capabilities for greenfield programmes or in new regions.
Knowledge of rechargeable lithium battery airworthiness and qualification standards.
Experience with hot-climate operations and production ramp-up.
An advanced degree in engineering or a related technical discipline.