Asian Aviation Editor Matt Driskill is In Conversation with Francois Piolet, the vice president and general manager for Thales Aviation Global Services (AGS) in Asia Pacific and China. Driskill and Piolet discuss the maintenance, repair and overhaul business in Asia and its latest developments. Appointed to this role in May 2020, Piolet is responsible for the strategy, development and growth of Thales’ ambitions to be the preferred MRO supplier in the region. With over 30 years of experience in the aerospace industry and a background in aeronautical engineering, Piolet has in-depth knowledge and understanding of the aviation sector, notably in aircraft engineering, manufacturing and utilisation, airline operations as well as regulatory compliance. During his professional journey, Piolet gained deep understanding of how leading global airlines operate, by supporting their goals and developing close partnerships over the years across several aerospace companies, such as Airbus Commercial, Airbus Defense & Space and Transport Canada.
Piolet began his career with Thales in 2000 when he joined its avionics global business unit where he was a regional sales manager, supporting the needs of regional and international airlines based in the United Kingdom and Middle East. From 2003 to 2014, Piolet grew his international portfolio by taking on the role of regional sales director for Europe and Middle East, and subsequently as vice president for marketing and sales, where he covered all markets worldwide. Prior to his current appointment, Piolet was the vice president and general manager for Thales’ AGS business, overseeing its operations in Europe, Africa and Middle East.
Before embarking on a career with Thales, Piolet spent a decade with Airbus Group where he held the role of Customer Support Director overseeing the Africa, Asia and Middle East markets. He holds both an Engineering and Electrical Engineering degrees from École Nationale de l’Aviation Civile (ENAC, National School of Civil Aviation) and currently resides in Singapore with his family.
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