Francesco Dentici, PMP

Project Manager / Engineer

Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi Emirate, United Arab Emirates

About

Dynamic project manager with 6+ years of experience in leading complex programs in aerospace and technology. Proven track record in delivering high-impact initiatives across Europe and the Middle East. Expert in Agile frameworks, stakeholder alignment, and cross-functional team leadership. Currently driving transformation in aerospace propulsion programs with a focus on digitalization, and cost control.

Experience

  • Technology Innovation Institute (Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi Emirate, United Arab Emirates · On-site)
    • Program Manager
      Feb 2026 - Present · 5 mos

    • Project Manager
      Nov 2024 - Feb 2026 · 1 yr 4 mos

      Zerogate Contractor for Propulsion and Space Research Centre – Project Management Managed end-to-end delivery of complex aerospace R&D programs focused on cruise missile and UAS propulsion systems, AI-driven diagnostics, and IR stealth optimization technologies. Oversaw full project lifecycle, from initiation and planning to execution and closure, ensuring adherence to scope, schedule, and quality standards across multi-million USD programs. Coordinated three international research teams (~20 researchers) in hybrid setups, driving milestone achievement, resource optimization, and cross-functional collaboration. Implemented robust project governance frameworks, including risk management, change control, and performance tracking, to maintain alignment with technical objectives and compliance requirements. Directed contract management and procurement processes, ensuring timely delivery of critical components and adherence to defense and export control regulations. Introduced AI-powered tools for real-time anomaly detection in propulsion systems, integrating software, systems engineering, and data science into project workflows. Defined and deployed IT systems for project lifecycle management, enabling traceability, version control, and collaborative development across distributed teams.

  • IT Project Manager at Sopra Steria
    Nov 2023 - Nov 2024 · 1 yr 1 mo

    Managing two concurrent Agile (SAFe) projects delivering digital solutions for Airbus Flight Physics engineering departments (e.g. Future Projects 1IX, Weights1GW, Loads 1GL, Aero 1GA), supporting their operations, data workflows. Leading a cross-functional team of 10+ developers, data engineers, and aerospace experts, ensuring coordination, sprint planning, and alignment with technical roadmaps. Driving the design, development, maintenance and integration of tools (Python,Java) and platforms to improve engineering efficiency, systems performance,and traceability. Overseeing a project portfolio with ~1.5M€ in annual revenue, responsible for budget control, client communication, and delivery KPIs. Ensuring full compliance with Airbus quality and cybersecurity standards while maintaining agility and continuous delivery through SAFe ceremonies (PI Planning, sprint demos, retros). Acting as the key interface between client product owners, internal tech leads and development teams, translating aerospace needs into scalable digital solutions.

  • Capgemini Engineering (Toulouse, Occitanie, France · Hybrid)
    • Engagement Manager
      Dec 2021 - Nov 2023 · 2 yrs

      Managing projects in the aerospace sector (~5 engineers). Annual Revenue ~0.7M€ with 30+% margin and high customer satisfaction. Daily tasks involve taking care of the whole project life cycle: Managing resources workload and customer relationship Planning, Monitor & Control Schedule, Budget, Margin, KPIs (On Time, On Quality,Growth, Offshore, Nearshore) Identify, Monitor and Mitigate Risks and Non-conformities.

    • Work Package Leader
      Sep 2021 - Dec 2021 · 4 mos

      Aircraft Aerodynamics and Flight Physics Tools Work Package Leader: Managing technical deliveries of projects (~5 FTE engineers, 10 WPs).

  • Airbus (3 yrs 4 mos)
    • Wing Concepts Future Projects Engineer
      Nov 2020 - Dec 2021 · 1 yr 2 mos

      Capgemini Contractor @ Future Projects Office: Wing and Landing Gear Concepts Design (1IXCW): Multi-Disciplinary Wing Design Optimization.

    • Computational Aerodynamics Engineer
      Feb 2020 - Nov 2020 · 10 mos

      Capgemini Contractor @ Airbus UpNext and Aerodynamics Department (1GA) - Overall Aircraft Design: Numerical Aerodynamics on Engine Jet, CFD on Blended Wing Body Aircraft.

    • Wing Concepts Future Projects Engineer
      Sep 2018 - Feb 2020 · 1 yr 6 mos

      Akkodis Contractor @ Future Projects Office: Wing and Landing Gear Concepts Design (1IXCW): Multi-Disciplinary Wing Design Optimization: Planform, Structure, Movables Layout and Deflections, High and Low Speed Aerodynamics, Fuel Systems, Wing Mass, Weight & Balance, Handling Qualities.

  • International Engineering Graduate Consultant at Akkodis
    Jul 2018 - Aug 2018 · 2 mos

    International Training Program for recent EU Engineering Graduates. Mix of Classroom Engineering Consulting Education and On-The-Job Training.