LCI, the Dublin-based aircraft lessor, has today announced the appointment of Michael Platt as CEO, effective 1 January 2012. He joins the management team with immediate effect as CEO Designate, working closely with current CEO, Crispin Maunder, who will become Executive Chairman.
Michael Platt, 51, joins the company with over 20 years’ experience in the aircraft leasing industry, including three years at Aircastle as Chief Investment Officer, and 15 at International Lease Finance Corporation where he rose to Senior Vice President. He is also a former President of the Society of Transport Aircraft Trading (ISTAT).
Crispin Maunder says: “We have been in discussions with Mike since the beginning of the year and are delighted that he is joining LCI. He is a well-known figure in the aviation industry and brings to LCI a true wealth of marketing and industry experience. This will be put to good use as we gear up for the deliveries of our first Bombardier CSeries aircraft from 2014 onwards.”
LCI was a launch customer for the CSeries, with an initial order of 20 aircraft valued at approximately US$1.4 billion and options for a further 20. Since its inception in 2004, the lessor has acquired aircraft with a value approaching US$5 billion and currently has one of the youngest portfolios on lease to many of the world’s leading airlines.
Michael Platt comments: “LCI has an enviable reputation as a smart, dynamic lessor. I look forward to working with Crispin and the team in moving the business forward into its next phase of development.”
Adam Tomazos, currently Chairman of LCI and Chief Operating Officer of its parent, The Libra Group, becomes a Special Advisor to LCI’s management team.