I could not agree more with Higher/Faster.
One of Panam manager was once heard to say during a meeting: fly the aeroplane until it breaks
Some time ago a pilot went to ask maintenance if they could add oil in the engine of his da40 only to be told, no it doesn't need oil.
As to the manager of the high performance department, higher/faster is right again. By doing this he is actively supporting panam's slack attitude towards maintenance and flight safety.
I hope that person is fully prepared to accept the entire responsibilty of his actions.