Senior ISM Manager

We are seeking an experienced Lead / Senior ISM Specialist to oversee and maintain the integrity of our Design Assurance System (DAS) / Quality Management System in strict compliance with CAR 21 (Subpart J / Subpart G) requirements. Reporting directly to the Chief of ISM, this role provides independent, objective oversight of organizational design, production, and compliance processes. The ideal candidate will operate autonomously to manage internal audits, non-conformances, and regulatory alignment to safeguard our organizational approvals. Key Responsibilities 1. Independent System Monitoring & Auditing Plan, execute, and lead the internal ISM Audit Program across design, compliance verification, supplier, and production activities per CAR 21 requirements. Maintain strict operational independence to evaluate system health without conflict of interest from project deadlines or engineering teams. Monitor the overall effectiveness and integrity of the Design Assurance System (DAS) and Production Management System. 2. Non-Conformance & CAPA Management Document, classify, and report audit findings and system non-conformances directly to the Chief of ISM. Drive Root Cause Analysis (RCA) with process owners and establish robust Corrective and Preventive Action (CAPA) plans. Monitor and verify CAPA implementations through to final closure within regulatory timelines. 3. Regulatory Oversight & Reporting Support the Chief of ISM during audits and inspections conducted by civil aviation authorities (e.g., DGCA, EASA). Monitor updates to CAR 21 regulations and assist in evaluating their operational impact on our Design Organization Exposition (DOE) / Production Organization Exposition (POE). Prepare independent quality status reports, compliance metrics, and risk assessments for the Chief of ISM. 4. Process Assurance & Continuous Improvement Interface with the Safety Management System (SMS) to monitor safety performance indicators and risk mitigation strategies. Verify that Compliance Verification Engineer (CVE) workflows and "four-eyes principle" procedures are followed strictly across projects. Requirements Education & Experience Education: Bachelor’s Degree in Aerospace, Aeronautical, Mechanical, or Electrical/Electronics Engineering. Experience: 8+ years of hands-on experience in Aviation Quality Assurance, Airworthiness, or Regulatory Compliance within a CAR 21 / EASA Part 21 design or production environment. Certification: Certified Lead Auditor (ISO 9001 / AS9100 / ISO 19011) strongly preferred. Technical Competencies Deep working knowledge of CAR 21 (Subpart J & Subpart G), Certification Specifications (CS-23 / CS-25 / CS-27 / CS-29), and airworthiness standards. Proven experience managing Design Assurance Systems (DAS), CVE sign-off workflows, and regulatory compliance oversight. Expertise in structured Root Cause Analysis methodologies (5-Why, Fishbone, 8D) and audit trail documentation. Soft Skills & Operational Traits Uncompromised Independence: Ability to make objective compliance evaluations independent of project schedule pressures. Autonomy: Highly self-directed professional capable of driving the monitoring schedule and reporting directly to the Chief of ISM with minimal supervision. Communication: Exceptional technical reporting and communication skills for interacting with senior leadership and regulatory inspectors.