Airbus has announced a significant leadership change, appointing Remi Maillard as the new Head of Technology and Executive Vice President of Engineering for Commercial Aircraft. This move comes amid a broader shake-up in the company’s design and engineering sectors as it prepares for the future of its aircraft lineup.
Key Takeaways
- Remi Maillard, previously head of Airbus India and South Asia, will lead Research & Technology.
- The technology role will no longer hold a seat on the main executive committee.
- Sabine Klauke will transition to oversee digital design and manufacturing.
- Airbus is focusing on developing technologies for a successor to the A320neo jetliner.
Leadership Changes at Airbus
On May 23, 2025, Airbus confirmed the appointment of Remi Maillard, who has been instrumental in the company’s operations in South Asia, to lead its technology division. This change is part of a strategic realignment as Airbus evaluates options for a successor to its highly successful A320neo jetliner.
Maillard will take over from Sabine Klauke, who has held the dual role of Head of Technology and Engineering. However, the new structure indicates that the technology function will no longer be designated as Chief Technology Officer, nor will it have a seat on the main executive committee, as outlined in an internal memo.
New Roles and Responsibilities
Starting July 1, 2025, Klauke will focus on digital design and manufacturing within the commercial aircraft division. This role is critical as Airbus aims to develop a future factory ecosystem, which CEO Guillaume Faury has emphasized as vital for the next generation of jet production.
The restructuring reflects a shift in priorities at Airbus, particularly as the company gears up for potential new aircraft projects that may be launched towards the end of the decade. The internal memo highlighted that these changes are essential for the future direction of Airbus.
Implications for Airbus’s Future
The merger of technology and engineering functions in 2021 was intended to streamline operations and reduce conflicts over resources. However, the recent changes suggest a reevaluation of the importance of the technology role within the company. Industry insiders have noted that while the focus on future aircraft development is increasing, the technology function appears to have been downgraded in terms of its influence within the executive structure.
Airbus is currently exploring various technologies for the next generation of aircraft, including advancements in propulsion systems, materials, and innovative wing designs. Despite these ambitions, the company has recently postponed plans for a smaller hydrogen-powered regional aircraft, citing the immaturity of the hydrogen ecosystem as a significant factor.
Conclusion
The appointment of Remi Maillard as Head of Technology marks a pivotal moment for Airbus as it navigates the complexities of the aerospace industry. With a renewed focus on innovation and future aircraft development, the company is positioning itself to remain competitive in a rapidly evolving market. As Airbus continues to adapt to new challenges, the leadership changes signal a commitment to advancing its technological capabilities while preparing for the next generation of aviation.
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