Heli Hires: Robinson recruits new COO to boost manufacturing

Boosting Robinson's manufacturing capacity will be the aim of its new COO Glenn WE Ford.

Robinson Helicopter Company has recruited aviation industry veteran Glenn WE Ford as its new chief operations officer (COO) to boost manufacturing capacity and efficiency.

Ford will oversee operational strategies designed to increase production capacity and efficiency and logistics optimisation. He will also support the development of new production lines for the recently announced R88 helicopter and the Spirit, Spartan, and Helius coaxial unmanned helicopters.

“Glenn’s decades of operational know-how will be instrumental in streamlining our parts and aircraft manufacturing processes and driving efficiencies across our logistics and overhaul business,” said David Smith, president and CEO of Robinson Helicopter Company. “Ultimately, this isn’t just about internal improvements; Glenn’s expertise is directly connected to our customers.

“By implementing smarter production and maintenance, repair, and operations [MRO] strategies, we will significantly increase our speed to market and responsiveness. This will ensure that our customers receive the quality aircraft and parts they depend on, faster than ever before.”

The new COO brings nearly four decades of experience across the aerospace industry in manufacturing operations, engineering design and supply chain logistics. Ford has held leadership titles at major industry organisations, including Sikorsky, Pratt & Whitney, and ICON Aircraft.

Commenting on his appointment, Ford said: “Few organisations in aerospace possess such an enduring commitment to craftsmanship, performance, and integrity. My intention is to strengthen the company’s production systems, empower our teams, and build upon RHC’s [Robinson Helicopter Company’s] proud tradition of quality, precision, and innovation.”