What attracted you to this work?
I've always been passionate about aviation. As a child, I dreamt of being a pilot. And ultimately, while I didn't end up pursuing that path, the fact that I am now working closely with pilots and seeing the Eurofighter every day feels like I fulfilled my dream. My current role in sales means I combine my technical background with business development, and allows me to contribute to a programme that embodies European collaboration.
How does it feel to be part of the Eurofighter programme?
It's incredibly rewarding. Seeing the Eurofighter in action and knowing I've played a small part to its success is very fulfilling. The programme represents the pinnacle of European cooperation, and being involved in it is a source of pride.
Growing up, I remember seeing the Eurofighter and thinking it was a symbol of cutting-edge technology. At the time, I never imagined that one day I might actually be working on the programme.
Tell us about your career journey and how you arrived at your current role.
I began my studies in Aerospace Engineering at the Polytechnic University of Madrid and completed my final project at the Technical University of Munich. This experience opened my eyes to international teamwork. In 2007, I joined Airbus (EADS-CASA at that time), working on the A400M programme in Integrated Logistic Support. A year later, I transitioned to the Eurofighter programme, focusing on supply chain management and support integration. By 2013, I had moved into programme management, working closely with export customers like Saudi Arabia and Oman. In 2018, worked on contract management and pricing within the Eurofighter Contract 1 and with the Spanish customer. Since 2022, I've been part of the sales team.
Who have been the key influences in your career, and what lessons have they imparted?
I've been fortunate to work with inspiring colleagues and managers. My first manager´s assistant, Miss Yolanda Sanchez Rivera, emphasised the importance of politeness, advising me to always include "please" and "thank you" in my communication — whether that’s face-to-face or email. Richard Burke from BAE Systems taught me to "enjoy the conflict," highlighting the growth that comes from challenges. Daniel Suarez from Airbus always told me that "everybody has something to contribute," which highlighted to me the value of diverse perspectives.
Language proficiency is crucial, but when I think of languages, I mean more than speaking and writing. For me it’s about understanding cultural nuances and body language.
What skills are essential for your role?
Language proficiency is crucial, but when I think of languages, I mean more than speaking and writing. For me it’s about understanding cultural nuances and body language. My time in Germany taught me the importance of adapting to different perspectives. In my role now strong communication and negotiation skills are vital, especially in a programme as complex as Eurofighter. The nature of the programme means you often need to balance diverse viewpoints — from design to support, supply chain to customer relations. It also requires empathy and the ability to find common ground.
What challenges do you face in your role, and how do you address them?
My role is all about different challenges. For example, it involves ensuring operational readiness for customers like the Spanish Air Force demands meticulous planning and coordination. Then there’s the task of aligning the interests of multiple stakeholders across different nations. This element requires patience, diplomacy, and a focus on shared objectives. Finally, there’s the job of communicating the long-term value of the programme to all stakeholders is also essential.
What does a typical day look like for you?
The beauty of my role is that no two days are the same. I might be meeting with customers to discuss contracts one day, visiting airbases, or collaborating with engineers and pilots. For me, the different aspects of the job keeps it engaging and fulfilling.
Why is the Halcon II programme significant for Spain?
Halcon II is crucial as it replaces the ageing F-18 fleet with 25 new Eurofighters, enhancing Spain's defence capabilities. Beyond operational benefits, it reinforces Spain's role in a successful European defence collaboration, promoting sovereignty and interoperability. Exercises like Pacific Skies in 2024 also demonstrated the close cooperation between Spanish and German air forces, and in doing so reflected the programme's collaborative spirit.
The Eurofighter is more than an aircraft; it's about to European collaboration and technological excellence. It ensures operational independence and supports thousands of high-skilled jobs across Europe. The programme exemplifies what Europe can achieve when nations work together towards a common goal.
How do you maintain a work-life balance in such a demanding role?
Balancing work with family life is essential. My wife works in a demanding sector, we have a nine-year-old son and we both try to balance and enjoy career and family. Flexible working arrangements have been vital, allowing me to fulfil professional responsibilities while being present for my family and support my wife’s career.