New executive leadership team announced for West Star Aviation
Independent MRO provider West Star Aviation has announced that Jim Rankin, Stephen Maiden, and Allen McReynolds will lead a new executive team for the company.
Rankin, who has served as the company’s chief executive since 2018, has been named executive chairman of the board, Maiden has been appointed his successor as the company’s chief executive, and McReynolds, who currently serves as chief operating officer, will take on an expanded role that includes being president of the company with responsibility for all West Star Aviation operations.
Maiden joined the West Star team in November of 2023 when Jet East, a Gama Aviation Company, where he served as president and chief executive, was acquired by West Star Aviation. Maiden’s career in aviation maintenance began when he served in the United States Air Force as an electrical and environmental specialist on F-16s. Throughout his career, Maiden has served in a variety of roles with including as an avionics technician to team lead and manager, to director of quality and operations.
Maiden’s tenured career in aviation maintenance, combined with his deep understanding of the MRO business and passion for creating relationships with employees and customers, are expected to drive West Star Aviation’s continued innovation.
McReynolds was announced as West Star Aviation’s chief operating officer in September of 2023. Shortly following that announcement, the company acquired Jet East and significantly expanded its maintenance operations. McReynolds has spent over 20 years in and around maintenance covering business aviation, commercial airlines and defence.
Prior to joining West Star Aviation, McReynolds served as a managing partner at SeaTec Consulting and has held distinguished leadership positions including vice president of global aftermarket sales for Textron Aviation and executive vice president of operations for Hawker Beechcraft.
Rankin said: “Stephen and Allen bring a unique set of skills and experiences to their leadership roles. I’m excited to support them as they build on West Star’s long-standing guiding principle of taking care of customers and employees.
“Stephen and Allen have a rich understanding of where the company is headed, and I look forward to achieving new milestones with them as they assume these leadership roles.”
Maiden said: “I am deeply honoured to have the opportunity to lead this remarkable team and express my sincere gratitude for all the hard work and dedication that has contributed to the legacy of West Star Aviation.
“The history of 77 years is truly special. Our people, who are the heart of our organisation, will remain our top priority as we strive to deliver exceptional experiences to our valued customers.
“By prioritising our team, we can truly be the differentiator in providing outstanding service and achieving operational excellence.”
McReynolds said: “I am humbled and honoured to have the opportunity of leading West Star Aviation across multiple business lines. The opportunity represents a professional and personal privilege to collaborate with a team of experts. I am excited about what the future holds for West Star Aviation.”
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