StandardAero’s Board of Directors has appointed Paul McElhinney, a 35-year aerospace industry veteran and StandardAero’s current Lead Independent Director, as Chief Executive Officer (CEO). He will succeed Russel Ford who will retire after 13 years leading the company and a 45-year career in the aerospace industry. McElhinney will assume the role of CEO on October 1, 2026.
To ensure a smooth transition, Ford will work closely with McElhinney in the coming months and will remain Executive Chairman of StandardAero’s Board until December 31, 2026. McElhinney will then take on the role of Chairman from January 1, 2027, while Ford will continue to serve as a member of the Board.
Since becoming CEO in 2013, Ford has overseen a period of significant growth and transformation for StandardAero. During his tenure, annual revenue increased from US$1.6 billion to more than US$6 billion in 2025. The company also expanded its global presence, broadened its service capabilities, improved profitability and strengthened relationships with operators and original equipment manufacturers worldwide.
Ford also led StandardAero through its successful initial public offering in 2024, positioning the company for continued long-term growth. Since listing, StandardAero has delivered strong operational and financial results, including sustained revenue growth, higher earnings and an expanding backlog.
McElhinney brings extensive leadership experience across the aerospace and industrial sectors. He currently serves as Senior Operating Partner and co-Head of the Portfolio Strategy and Optimisation Group at AE Industrial Partners and has been a member of StandardAero’s Board since 2019.
Before joining AE Industrial Partners, McElhinney held several senior leadership roles at General Electric during a 30-year career with the company. He served as President and CEO of GE Power Services, a US$15 billion power generation aftermarket business, and as President and CEO of GE Aviation Services, where he more than doubled the division’s backlog to over US$100 billion. He also held General Counsel and Business Development positions at GE Aviation and GE Capital Aviation Services.
