HAECO appoints Richard Sell as new Chief Executive Officer

HAECO Group, a leading global provider of aircraft maintenance, repair, and overhaul services, has announced the appointment of Mr. Richard Sell as its new Chief Executive Officer. He will assume the role on 1 July 2023, succeeding Mr. Frank Walschot, who will remain as an advisor to the company.

With over 20 years of leadership experience in a diverse range of industries and corporate structures, Mr. Sell brings a wealth of expertise to his new role. He currently serves as the Chief Executive Officer of Hong Kong Aero Engine Services Ltd (HAESL), a 50/50 joint venture between HAECO and Rolls-Royce, and is a director of Taikoo (Xiamen) Aircraft Engineering Company Ltd and Goodrich Asia-Pacific Ltd.

Prior to his current role, Mr. Sell held management positions with several Swire group companies, including Cathay Pacific Airways, Swire Pacific, The China Navigation Company, Swire Energy Services, and Swire Pacific Offshore in Hong Kong, Singapore, India and Europe. During this time, he gained experience in various sectors, including aviation, marine, retail and distribution, and was responsible for both wholly owned subsidiaries and joint ventures covering Hong Kong and the Chinese Mainland.

As the Chief Executive Officer of HAECO, Mr. Sell will be responsible for overseeing the group’s operations and business strategy, with a focus on driving safety, quality, and operational excellence to meet the needs of its diverse global customer base.

"I am delighted to join HAECO and lead this dynamic organisation into its next phase of growth," said Mr. Sell. "HAECO has an outstanding reputation for providing quality services and for its 'can-do' spirit. I am excited to work with the talented team to build on this legacy and to drive the company's continued success.”

Mr. Sell holds a degree from the University of Leeds and has also attended INSEAD and Stanford University Graduate School of Business.

HAECO Group would like to express its heartfelt gratitude to Mr. Frank Walschot for his outstanding leadership and vision for the company during his tenure as Chief Executive Officer. His unwavering commitment and dedication to driving operational excellence, promoting safety and delivering quality services have been instrumental in shaping the company's success. Under his leadership, HAECO has continued to expand its global footprint, while maintaining its position as a leading provider of aircraft maintenance, repair, and overhaul services. HAECO wishes Mr. Walschot all the best in his future endeavours and thank him for his invaluable contributions to the company.