SMBC Aero Engine Lease (SAEL) announces that Roger Welaratne will succeed Akinori Kojima as Managing Director & CEO as of 1 April 2021.

Mr. Welaratne has 25 years of experience in aircraft engine leasing in leadership roles and he joined SAEL in February 2020 as Chief Commercial Officer after his 14 years responsibility in GECAS Engines as SVP Commercial. Mr. Kojima received a new assignment in Sumitomo Corporation Tokyo.

“I have been enjoying working with many customers, industrial friends and professional colleagues for last 4 years based in Amsterdam. I am so proud of SAEL being one of leading engine leasing companies and, I have no doubt, SAEL will grow further and be continuously trusted partner to any stakeholders under leadership of Roger, who has deep expertise and exposures in this industry. I would be grateful if our existing/new customers can extend great support and friendship to him.” said Mr. Kojima and Mr. Welaratne says “I am honored by this appointment and I am proud to take on the leadership of the team at SAEL during these very challenging times. I am very excited and am looking forward to working with the entire team and the shareholders to make SAEL even stronger, to growing the company on the legacy it has been founded on, to delivering the best services to all our customers and to continuing to support them. I also want thank Akinori for his kind guidance since I joined SAEL a year ago and wish him every success in his next adventure.”.