Head of Battery & Energy Storage

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.