10 MAY 2021 - ABL Aviation, the global independent aircraft investment management firm, today announces the appointment of Michael Weiss as Chief Commercial Officer. Michael’s appointment further strengthens ABL Aviation’s senior leadership team as the Company pursues its growth strategy, underpinned by independent decision making and an innovative approach to aircraft financing.

In his new role Michael will be responsible for further solidifying ABL Aviation’s close airline and institutional investor relationships and spearheading growth. Michael will bring over 30 years of broad-ranging aviation industry experience and expertise with him.

During his long career Michael has held senior positions at a number of financial institutions including Investec, where he was Head of Aircraft Finance & Leasing and instrumental to driving the bank’s strategy of establishing dedicated aircraft related funds. More recently, Michael was Head of Aircraft Trading at SMBC Aviation Capital, where he led the Aircraft Trading team into new markets and built up a presence in Asia, specifically Japan, by offering new and innovative solutions to investors, alongside the Company’s Japanese shareholders.

Michael was also a Director of ISTAT, the industry’s not for profit trade association from 2017 to 2021, and has established his own advisory and consulting business for investors and financial institutions in the aviation sector.

Ali Ben Lmadani, CEO of ABL Aviation, said: “I am delighted to welcome Michael to ABL Aviation, who as a widely respected industry figure, will be a huge asset to our senior leadership team. Michael’s years of experience in international aviation financing makes him uniquely positioned for the role. I have every confidence that he will be key to helping us achieve our strategic growth ambitions. I look forward to working closely with Michael as we continue to deliver industry-leading and innovative aircraft finance solutions.”

Commenting on his appointment, Michael Weiss said: “It is with great excitement that I join ABL Aviation, at what is a very important time for the business. I am looking forward to working with such a dynamic leadership team to further grow the business and foster the culture of innovation for which ABL Aviation is known for. Together, we will continue to cultivate strong airline relationships and pioneer unique approaches to aircraft finance.”