Specialist CFM56 engine repair facility, Aero Norway, has appointed Neil Russell as its new chief executive.

Previously chief operating officer with a five-year history at Aero Norway, Russell takes over from Glenford Marston who, after eight years, will move to the role of senior vice president – sales.

Russell is a highly respected industry advocate and responsible for the implementation of process improvements that have established Aero Norway’s reputation for precision and benchmark efficiency.

Russell said: “Aero Norway is constantly pursuing greater efficiencies and looking for ways to improve processes to generate reduced turn-around-times and underpin the delivery of a range of full workscope options.

“As we move towards 2024, we are scheduling the facility with heavy engine maintenance programmes across primarily the CFM56-5b and -7b engines.

“At Aero Norway we’re anticipating that the -5 and -7 continue to be our future for a long time so have been investing in more machinery, specialist equipment and training.

“Continuous exploration of ways to make our business more sustainable and further reduce our carbon footprint are always at the top of our agenda, and recently we have aligned our policies to the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

“We’re also 100 per cent committed to attracting, training, and developing the mechanics and technicians of the future with our comprehensive apprentice programmes.”

Russell added: “I feel excited about the opportunities that lie ahead. However, it’s also incredibly reassuring for the team and me personally to know that Glen will remain part of Aero Norway’s management team moving forwards.

“He has guided the business through challenging times with a genuine empathy for the people that contribute daily to its success and combined that with his inimitable panache. He remains an inspiring figurehead.”

Marston said: “Neil is the ideal successor to the role of CEO and know he will take the business forwards with confidence. Meanwhile, I anticipate sitting back face-to-face with our customers and finding new ways for Aero Norway to bring value to their engine assets.”

Russell has 18 years’ combined experience of managing operations/production, engineering and supply chain/sourcing in the aviation and oil and gas industries.

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