StandardAero has confirmed the retirement of Steve Sinquefield, its Chief Legal Officer for more than a decade. Sinquefield will step down at the end of 2025, bringing to a close a distinguished 40-year career in aviation law.
To ensure continuity, Michael L. Kaplan will re-join the company as Chief Legal Officer on October 6, 2025. Kaplan previously served as senior vice president, general counsel, chief security officer, and secretary at StandardAero. He will succeed Sinquefield and report directly to Russell Ford, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer.
Kaplan returns with over 25 years of legal and executive leadership experience. Most recently, he was senior counsel at Norton Rose Fulbright, where he advised on corporate, securities, and mergers and acquisitions. His earlier roles include more than a decade as Chief Legal Officer at M.D.C. Holdings, Inc. and Red Robin Gourmet Burgers, Inc. His background spans compliance, governance, and corporate transactions across a range of industries.
“We are delighted to welcome Michael back to StandardAero,” said Ford. “He brings deep expertise, knowledge of our business, and a proven record of success. His leadership will be vital as we continue to execute our growth strategy.”
Ford also paid tribute to Sinquefield. “We are grateful to Steve for his outstanding service. Over the past ten years, he has been central to StandardAero’s transformation and success. His contribution has helped shape us into the global leader we are today. We wish him every happiness in his well-earned retirement.”
Sinquefield’s career includes senior legal posts with Beechcraft Aircraft Company, Raytheon Aerospace Services, Vertex Aerospace, L-3 Communications Integrated Systems, and Tenax Aerospace Holdings, before joining StandardAero. He will remain with the company through the end of 2025 to support a smooth transition.
