Airbus procurement chief to move to India role, no successor named

In a major leadership shift reflecting the evolving demands of procurement and supply chain management, European aerospace giant Airbus has appointed its top procurement supply chain executive, Juergen Westermeier, to oversee operations in India and South Asia starting September 1, 2025, according to an internal memo seen by Reuters.

Westermeier, who has played a pivotal role in stabilizing procurement supply chain and logistics functions across Airbus' global network, will replace Remi Maillard, who was recently named Head of Technology. His successor as procurement chief remains unannounced.

This move comes as Airbus struggles to meet its 2025 target of delivering 820 aircraft, amid weakened supply chains, labor shortages, and post-pandemic challenges. Airbus deliveries were down 4% in May and 5% year-to-date, according to recent data.

Westermeier is known for pressuring suppliers to maintain high quality standards, hold more inventory, and align with Airbus' long-term procurement supply chain strategies. He previously led efforts to unify global supplier standards, positioning Airbus as a potential contender in procurement supply chain awards circuits.

While some suppliers have called for renewed focus to support increased output, insiders suggest that Westermeier's new role is not a reaction to these issues. Airbus CEO Guillaume Faury commended his leadership, underscoring his contribution to procurement and supply chain stability.