StandardAero names Paul McElhinney new CEO as Russell Ford retires
McElhinney will assume the Chairman title on January 1st, 2027, with Ford remaining on the board thereafter.
Aerospace engine services firm StandardAero announced Paul McElhinney as the company’s new CEO set to take the role on October 1st, 2026, replacing Russell Ford who led the company since 2013.
Paul McElhinney
Ford will retire following one of the more significant growth runs in the aerospace aftermarket sector. He will transition to executive chairman through December 31st, 2026, working alongside McElhinney during the handover period.
McElhinney will assume the chairman title on January 1st, 2027, with Ford remaining on the board thereafter.
Under Ford’s 13-year tenure, StandardAero grew annual revenue from $1.6bn to more than $6bn, expanded its global footprint and completed its NYSE listing in 2024.
“Together, we have strengthened our portfolio, deepened our customer relationships and continued to deliver value to shareholders with strong financial performance,” Ford said in a statement.
Board director Doug Brandely credited Ford with building the company into a market leader. “Under Russ’ leadership, StandardAero has grown into a market leader, delivered significant value and established strong momentum across the business,” Brandely said.
McElhinney brings more than 35 years of aerospace experience to the role. He spent three decades at General Electric, where he ran GE Aviation Services and GE Power Services.
He has served on StandardAero’s board since 2019 and currently holds a senior role at private equity firm.
“StandardAero plays a critical role in the aerospace aftermarket and, with robust demand across all its end markets and a clear trajectory for continued growth, is well positioned to capture the market opportunity ahead,” McElhinney said.
