Malcolm Wright appointed general manager of Sikorsky Australia

As general manager Sikorsky Australia, Wright's leadership focus will be on continuing to provide comprehensive sustainment services to the Royal Australian Navy's (RAN) MH-60R Seahawk fleet, the Australian Army's S-70A-9 Black Hawk fleet, and regional Sikorsky helicopter operators.

Wright will lead Sikorsky's 250-strong workforce in six locations around Australia, including the company's main location and headquarters at the Albatross Aviation Technology Park, south west of Nowra, to enhance aviation sustainment operations, by ensuring the highest quality and safety assurance standards in aviation maintenance for the Australian Defence Force and industry.

At Nowra the team supports the RAN's MH-60R fleet based at nearby HMAS Albatross, along with performing other corporate functions.

"Malcolm's extensive service in Australian aviation, brings significant experience and expertise to the Sikorsky Australia team," said Lockheed Martin Australia and New Zealand chief executive Joe North.

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"I congratulate Malcolm on his appointment to general manager Sikorsky Australia - he is no stranger to Sikorsky helicopters and military aviation operations.

"Together with his combined experience and passion for defence aviation, I am assured that our longstanding and trusted partnership with the Australian Defence Force to keep the Seahawk and Black Hawk helicopters in the skies on mission will continue."

Wright comes to the role after serving more than 20 years in national security, spanning the RAN, Customs and Border Protection and the Australian Public Service Commission.

His most recent role was as director, Navy Aviation Acquisition Programs acquiring 24 Sikorsky Seahawk Romeo helicopters for the RAN.

He has served in both training and operational roles, including an exchange in the United Kingdom as a helicopter warfare instructor, development of maritime counter-terrorist helicopter operations in Australia, and command of RAN Helicopter Squadron 816 (Sikorsky Seahawk Squadron).

He also holds a Master of Science (Management) Degree at Salve Regina University, US.

Mr Wright said he was "excited" to be taking on the leadership of Sikorsky Australia.

"We have a proven track record as a rotary-wing sustainment partner to the Commonwealth of Australia," he said.

"I'm proud of the team we have in place providing the sovereign industrial capability priority of aerospace platform deeper maintenance and structural integrity.

"I look forward to working closely with our highly skilled engineers, logistics and support staff maintaining Australian Sikorsky military helicopters along with providing regional military and commercial maintenance repair and overhaul services."

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