Former CFO Named President, COO Of Planemaker

Cirrus Design announced Friday it appointed Brent Wouters as President and Chief Operating Officer. Wouters served as Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Cirrus since early 2002.

"We are proud to present Brent with an opportunity that will allow him to utilize his strengths and expertise in both the aviation and financial realms, said Cirrus CEO Alan Klapmeier. "I am confident that his enthusiasm and direction will take Cirrus to the next level of success."

The company notes Wouters has a strong background of financial and aviation industry experience that will contribute to the ongoing growth of Cirrus Design. Prior to his tenure at Cirrus, Wouters served as an aircraft engineer, and spent four years developing and testing flight simulators for Delta Air Lines.

He also played a key role as an information technology consultant assisting Lockheed Martin with proprietary inventory management software in their successful bid to build the F-22 military aircraft.

"I am excited to take on a position that will require my specialized abilities in a growing industry," said Wouters. "I look forward to continuing Cirrus' commitment to manufacturing the most innovative planes and expanding the scope of our product line."

Wouters takes over in his new roles at an interesting time in the company's history. In 2007, Cirrus introduced four new-model aircraft, including the SR22 G3 -- Cirrus' most advanced aircraft to date. In June, Cirrus unveiled the concept design for its single-engine The-Jet -- arguably, the most anticipated aircraft in the company's history.

The following month, Cirrus announced its entry-level SRS light sport aircraft. And to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the SR20, Cirrus introduced the 2008 SR20 Generation Three, a complete redesign of the company's first certified aircraft.

FMI: www.cirrusdesign.com