Industry & Services >> CEO Interviews >> May 1, 1998
CHARLES F. WILLIS IV, founder of Willis Lease Finance Corporation (the
'Company', formerly known as Charles F. Willis Company, established in
1974 and incorporated in 1985) and its subsidiaries, has served as
President, Chief Executive Officer, and a Director since its inception.
Mr. Willis began his career in the aviation industry with his father,
who was President of Alaska Airlines for nearly two decades. Mr. Willis
has 30 years experience in the aviation industry. During the initial
years, Mr. Willis provided services to airlines and freight carriers
which included fleet planning, re-marketing of surplus aircraft,
assistance with acquisitions through lease or purchase, aircraft
inspections and appraisals, cost estimates of aircraft reconditioning,
modification certification, and expert testimony. Additionally, Mr.
Willis represented clients before regulatory commissions and financial
institutions. Prior to starting the Company, he was Assistant Vice
President of Sales at Seaboard World Airlines, a freight carrier, and
from 1965 through 1972, held various positions within the departments of
Flight Operations, Sales and Marketing at Alaska Airlines. Over the past
25 years, Mr. Willis has transacted business in over 60 countries
worldwide. These countries have included industrialized nations as well
as Third World developing nations and members of the Eastern Bloc. He
has acquired all currently marketed commercial jet aircraft and aircraft
engines and has either sold the equipment for a profit or placed it on
lease. Under Mr. Willis' leadership, the Company has grown to over $100
million in assets, attaining a large percentage of the operating lease
market for Stage III engines. Profile
Willis Lease Finance Corporation, and then bring us up to date. What
over the next two to three years do you see as the key
