Airbus has announced a leadership reshuffle for its India and South Asia operations, appointing Juergen Westermeier, the company’s current Chief Procurement Officer, as President and Managing Director for the region.
Westermeier will take over from Rémi Maillard, effective September 1, 2025. This appointment is part of a broader leadership transition at the Netherlands-based global aircraft manufacturer.
As Westermeier transitions into his new role, Benoît Schultz, currently Head of Airbus operations in Canada, will step into the role of Chief Procurement Officer starting October 1.
Strategic Shift and Leadership Rejig
This marks the second significant leadership change in recent months for Airbus. Earlier in May, Rémi Maillard, the outgoing India head, was appointed to lead Airbus’ global technology department.
In a parallel move, Sabine Klauke, who previously held the CTO role, was assigned to oversee the digital design and manufacturing of Airbus’ commercial aircraft business.
Focus on India’s Aerospace Growth
In his new role, Westermeier will be responsible for driving Airbus’ strategy in India and the South Asia region. His mandate includes expanding the company’s presence across its three major verticals: commercial aircraft, helicopters, and aerospace and defence.
A key priority for Westermeier will be accelerating the ‘Make in India’ initiative. Airbus has been steadily increasing India’s contribution to its global production and sourcing footprint. Westermeier is expected to strengthen local partnerships and deepen Airbus’ integration into the Indian aerospace ecosystem.
Performance Update and Outlook
The leadership changes come at a time when Airbus reported a decline in aircraft deliveries for the first half of 2025. The company delivered 306 commercial aircraft from January to June, down from 323 aircraft delivered during the same period in 2024.
Despite the dip in deliveries, the leadership transition signals Airbus’ long-term commitment to innovation, localisation, and growth in one of its fastest-growing markets.
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