Since the first call to action in January, team members across De Havilland Canada have stepped up to support our company-wide cost efficiency initiative and we’re seeing meaningful momentum!
At the end of February, a cross-functional Cost Efficiency Team was assembled, with a dedicated Cost Efficiency Lead (CE Lead) representing each business unit. These Leads have been meeting weekly to support the investigation of identified savings and help turn ideas into realized cost savings.
As of the end of May:
- Total Identified Savings: $16,719,913.90
- Total Achieved Savings: $7,284,681.15
We’ve now moved into Phase 2 of the initiative. Over the coming weeks, each CE Lead will be meeting with their Vice President and Finance representatives to:
- Review progress-to-date
- Create a clear action plan to drive results through the remainder of FY25
What We’re Hearing from You
Many of your ideas are already being evaluated and some are already being implemented. Here are just a few of the practical, impactful suggestions received so far:
- Improve stock and inventory management to avoid excess ordering and waste
- Reduce utility costs by optimizing HVAC, heat, and lighting schedules
- Cut shipping expenses by reusing crates and utilizing internal transport
- Limit unnecessary printing, shredding costs, and business class travel
- Streamline parts procurement and material shelf-life extension
- Explore automation, cross-training, and use of AI for operational decisions
These ideas show how small actions in each department can create major savings across the company.
A Lunch to Say Thanks
Brian Chafe has offered to host lunch with five employees 2 in YYZ, 2 in YYC, and 1 in YYJ who submit cost-saving suggestions. We’re grateful for the substantial number of excellent suggestions we’ve received, and as a result, we’ll be selecting the winners by random draw. If you’re selected, you’ll be notified this week. You can even invite another executive to join the lunch!
Thank You for Stepping Up
We sincerely thank everyone who took the time to submit an idea. Your thoughtful contributions are helping shape a more efficient and resilient future for De Havilland Canada.
Let’s keep filling the Dash 8 with savings, together.
For questions or to submit your idea, please email communications@dehavilland.com
Team: News