Organizational Update

As part of our ongoing efforts to focus and strengthen the De Havilland Canada executive team, and in support of the addition of De Havilland Defence to DHC’s strategic priorities, we are implementing a realignment of roles and responsibilities to best position the organization for future growth. 

In this context, Sandra Howell will be transitioning to a new role as Vice-President, Program Development and Government Relations, De Havilland Defence. In this capacity, Sandra’s leadership will be instrumental in driving the growth and long-term success of the De Havilland Defence program. Her focus will include advancing strategic partnerships and ensuring alignment with government and industry priorities to support the program’s continued expansion and operational excellence. Over the next 3-6 months there will be a transition with her current responsibilities to new leadership joining DHC. 

Since joining DHC in May 2022, Sandra’s leadership has embodied our core DHC values. Her dedication and vision have made a lasting impact, strengthening the Programs team and positioning it to advance our mission for years to come. We want to extend our gratitude for all she has accomplished and the foundation she has built for the future. Please join us in congratulating Sandra as she embarks on this next chapter of her career at De Havilland Canada. 

New Leadership Appointments 

In support of this realignment, we are pleased to announce  new additions to the DHC executive team: 

Jean-François (JF) Desroches — Vice-President, New Aircraft Programs 

In his role, JF will oversee the end-to-end development, certification, and market introduction of DHC’s new aircraft programs, specifically the DHC-515 and the Sherpa, as well as Waterbomber Avionics upgrades and other Waterbomber product development initiatives. He will ensure departmental objectives align with DHC’s strategic goals and continue to drive innovation to maintain the company’s competitive edge in the aerospace industry. 

JF exemplifies DHC’s core values in both his leadership and approach to collaboration. With more than 30 years of international experience, he has successfully led large-scale programs and driven operational excellence across the aerospace, defence, and transport sectors. Most recently, JF served as Vice-President of Operations at CMC Electronics. His career also includes senior leadership roles at Airbus (A220), Bombardier Defence, Alstom, and Lockheed Martin, giving him deep expertise across the full spectrum of aircraft development—from design and production to certification and sustainment. 

Davor Filipovic — Vice-President, Aircraft Programs 

Davor will lead current aircraft programs at DHC, including the Twin Otter, aircraft modifications such as the Large Cargo Door and Dash 8 Avionics Upgrades, as well as the Dash 8 (existing fleet and potential re-launch), Dash 1–7 (including the 300-G and Guardian platforms), and additional large-scale product development initiatives, such as sustainable propulsion. He will also oversee the Project Management Office, ensuring alignment with DHC’s strategic goals and continued innovation across all programs. 

With over 18 years of leadership experience in the aerospace sector—including positions at Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Raytheon Technologies, and Bombardier Aerospace—Davor demonstrates De Havilland Canada’s core values in every aspect of his leadership. He leads by fostering collaboration across cross-functional teams. Davor’s record includes managing high-profile programs such as the Q400 turboprop cargo-combi variant, Global 5500/6500/7500, and Learjet aircraft. He has successfully led program management, new product introduction, quality, and strategic governance initiatives, while serving as account executive for Bombardier and Airbus. He also brings valuable expertise in aircraft certification and regulatory compliance, having guided multiple aircraft types and components through rigorous certification milestones.