New Investor and Management Changes Herald a New Era for the International Bureau of Aviation
London, 22nd June 2015: The International Bureau of Aviation (IBA) has today announced a new investor in the business following the retirement of Laurie Hatcher, Chairman and Founder of the Company. The new IBA shareholder, Hockley Investments Limited, will be a long term partner supporting future growth and development of the business. IBA proudly retains their full independence from all manufacturers, lessors, banks and airlines, ensuring that their specialist consulting services continue to be provided without any conflict of interests.
With immediate effect, management changes see Phil Seymour step up to the position of Chief Executive Officer. Phil will lead the business alongside Steve Fisk, now Chief Operating Officer, Owen Geach, now Chief Commercial Officer, and Stuart Hatcher, now Chief Intelligence Officer.
Retiring Chairman and Founder, Laurie Hatcher, comments “When I set up IBA in 1988 to provide technical advice and appraisals to the aviation industry, I hoped it was the right service at the right time. Seeing the business succeed over the last 27 years has shown it was, and what a fantastic journey it’s proved to be. We have built relationships all over the world with a broad range of aviation investors and businesses. Now that it is time for me to step back, I hand over the reins to a great team who I know will continue the success of the business.”
Phil Seymour, IBA CEO, adds “Speaking on behalf of the all the team, we are very excited about the future and the new opportunities we have for the development of the Company through organic growth and acquisition. Our new investor will ensure that we have the capability to further develop our services in key emerging markets as well as grow our already strong managed portfolio of aircraft. Equally, as IBA enters this new era for the business, we will ensure that the strengths we are known for, and that ultimately make us an excellent investment choice for Hockley, continue to lead the Company forward. Our existing Clients can feel confident that it will be ‘business as usual’ but with the added benefits of enhanced services in the future.”
Hockley commented "IBA presented a unique investment opportunity for us to partner with an experienced management team in a vibrant and challenging sector. IBA are renowned for their insight and professional expertise, and we are inspired to be part of the team that will lead the business on its new growth trajectory.”
Owen Geach, CCO, explains why IBA was the right choice for third party investors “We have always been a nimble, lean business and have great assets in our highly experienced people and the extensive data records we hold. Our total independence, private ownership and strong relationships with key aviation stakeholders across the globe, mean we are always at the fore of key sector issues and trends. We have an unparalleled understanding of the aviation market, gained over more than 25 years of business, and are proud to be seen as one of the world’s leading aviation consultancies. But there is still so much scope for growth and development of the business as the Company moves forward in this latest stage of its lifecycle.”
