Aquila Air Capital (Aquila), the engine lessor backed by funds managed by New York-based global alternative asset manager Wafra, has announced the appointment of Gary Lew as Chief Financial Officer.
Lew brings more than twenty-five years of aviation and financial industry experience to the role, with a strong focus on investment strategy, capital markets, corporate finance and asset management. He will lead the development of Aquila's financial structure and oversee all areas of corporate development, strategic financing initiatives, capital markets activity and key partnerships.
“With his proven expertise in finance and capital markets, coupled with an extensive industry background, Gary will significantly enhance our leadership team. This positions Aquila to lead confidently through our next chapter as a trusted and strategic provider of thrust for the industry,” said Al Wood, Chief Executive Officer of Aquila Air Capital.
Lew joins Aquila following the founding of Capitola Partners, where he led significant multi-year engagements with a global lessor, an asset trading and management firm, two major U.S.-based family offices, and an Ireland-based corporate services provider. His experience also includes key roles at Vx Capital Partners, where he built a deep network and track record as an investor, lessor, asset manager and strategic advisor.
In addition to his corporate roles, Lew serves as an Independent Director for two major ABS issuances and has held academic positions as an adjunct lecturer at St. Mary's College and the UC Davis Graduate School of Management.
