Dublin, 06 April 2020: Following Board approval, SMBC Aviation Capital, the leading aircraft leasing company, today announces the appointment of Tomoyuki (Tom) Tanaka as the new Chairman of the Board. Mr. Tanaka formerly served as Deputy Head of the Transportation Business Unit for SMBC Aviation Capital’s shareholder Sumitomo Mitsui Finance and Leasing (SMFL) in Tokyo.
Mr. Tanaka will replace Mr. Shinichi Hayashida, who has served as Chairman since May 2012. Mr. Tanaka has previously held a series of senior roles within various parts of the Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation (SMBC), including Joint General Manager, in the Aviation Capital Department, in London and General Manager & Country Head in Sydney. Mr. Tanaka was part of the team in SMBC Europe Limited, which managed the Group’s acquisition of SMBC Aviation Capital in 2011.
Peter Barrett, Chief Executive Officer, SMBC Aviation Capital said, “Tom brings deep industry and commercial insights and we look forward to his counsel and input particularly during this challenging time for the industry and for our next phase of development as we emerge from this period. His appointment highlights the ongoing, close and supportive relationship we have with our shareholders which is crucial at this time. On behalf of the Board, I would like to thank and give our deep appreciation to our outgoing Chairman, Shinichi Hayashida for his valuable contribution during his tenure.”
Tom Tanaka, Chairman SMBC Aviation Capital added: “The industry is currently facing a number of challenges, however I look forward to working with a team of dedicated colleagues in SMBC Aviation Capital, both during this current period and following this, as we engage in the next phase of our development.”
SMBC Aviation Capital owns and manages a portfolio of 429 aircraft and benefits from a close relationship with its shareholders Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group and Sumitomo Corporation. This relationship enables SMBC Aviation Capital to engage with the market and raise capital to support a robust capital structure and provide a strong platform for future growth.