Fri, Jan 21, 2022
World's Largest FBO Network Selects Brass After Going Private
Signature Aviation's recent acquisition will soon be headed by Michael Friisdahl as executive chairman, and Tony Lefebvre as chief executive officer. Friisdahl, currently standing president of Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment, will assume his role on March 1, with Lefebvre appointed as CEO effective immediately. The move codifies his position and makes his standing firm after working as interim CEO since June of 2021.
“Both Michael and Tony bring decades of extensive strategic and operational experience from within and outside of the aviation industry that will allow Signature Aviation to build on our successes to date and accelerate our plans for growth,” said lead director Steve Bolze on behalf of the Signature Aviation Board of Directors and ownership consortium that backed the deal. “We are delighted with the strength of the Signature Aviation team, and its leadership with Michael and Tony at the helm, as we build on our position as the preeminent provider of private aviation terminals and services in the world.”
Friisdahl joins Signature after 6 years with Maple Entertainment, parent owner of the Toronto Maple Leafs, Toronto Raptors, Toronto Football Club and Toronto Argonauts in addition to the ownership or operations of all the venues its teams play and train in, including Scotiabank Arena. His tenure there saw a program of "digital transformation and customer experience within the organization that resulted in innovations that improved efficiency and enhanced the fan experience."
Lefebvre brings 3 decades of aviation experience to the CEO position. His prior gigs with US Airways and Spirit Airlines have given him a strong backing in fostering high-margin, low cost operations. After the acquisition of Signature Aviation, his work as interim CEO brought the company from public to private ownership.
“I am deeply humbled by the trust and confidence of our Board of Directors in appointing me as the Chief Executive Officer of Signature Aviation. It is truly a privilege to lead the talented Signature team at a pivotal moment of unprecedented transformation and growth. I look forward to continuing to work with our team, our Board of Directors, and Michael to drive business growth and deliver exceptional and innovative experiences for our customers.”
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