AAR Executive and Leadership Team

September, 2026

Leadership Overview

AAR has 4 executives leading key functions including corporate strategy, financial oversight, government operations, and executive management.

Focused on delivering comprehensive aviation solutions, AAR maintains a commitment to operational excellence and global defense support through advanced supply chain and maintenance services.

Leadership Roles at AAR

  • Md. Chief Executive Officer - Rahul Deb
  • Chairman, President & Chief Executive Officer - John Holmes
  • Chief Financial Officer - Edwin Powers
  • Government Services Chief of Staff (Operations) - Willa Hart
  • Rahul Deb - Md. Chief Executive Officer

    Rahul Deb, the Md. Chief Executive Officer at AAR, directs the overarching strategic vision for global aviation services. This leadership role involves managing complex commercial partnerships and ensuring the alignment of service delivery with international aerospace standards. By optimizing internal workflows, the Md. Chief Executive Officer drives efficiency across all business units. Rahul Deb maintains a focus on long-term growth by identifying emerging market opportunities within the defense sector. The Md. Chief Executive Officer collaborates with the board to refine corporate objectives while overseeing the integration of new technologies into existing maintenance frameworks. Through rigorous performance monitoring, the Md. Chief Executive Officer ensures that all operational outputs meet the high-quality requirements expected by government and commercial clients. This executive leadership position demands constant vigilance regarding market shifts and regulatory changes, ensuring that the organization remains a premier provider of aviation support services on a global scale.

    John Holmes - Chairman, President & Chief Executive Officer

    John Holmes, the Chairman, President & Chief Executive Officer at AAR, governs the strategic direction and corporate governance of the entire organization. This leadership role requires balancing the needs of shareholders with the operational demands of the aviation and defense industries. John Holmes architects the long-term expansion plans, focusing on scaling service capabilities across North American and international markets. The Chairman, President & Chief Executive Officer manages high-level relationships with key government stakeholders to secure critical defense contracts. By fostering a culture of innovation, the Chairman, President & Chief Executive Officer ensures that the company remains competitive in a rapidly evolving aerospace landscape. This executive position involves direct oversight of major capital investments and the alignment of departmental goals with the broader mission of providing superior aviation support. Through decisive leadership, the Chairman, President & Chief Executive Officer maintains the financial health and market reputation of the firm.
    John Holmes

    Edwin Powers - Chief Financial Officer

    Edwin Powers, the Chief Financial Officer at AAR, manages the fiscal health and capital allocation strategies for the organization. This leadership role involves overseeing financial reporting, tax compliance, and investor relations to ensure transparency and growth. Edwin Powers directs the budgeting process, ensuring that resources are allocated effectively to support the company's diverse aviation service offerings. By analyzing market trends and economic indicators, the Chief Financial Officer mitigates financial risks associated with global aerospace operations. This executive position requires close collaboration with other C-suite leaders to evaluate the profitability of new service lines and potential acquisitions. The Chief Financial Officer maintains rigorous internal controls to protect assets and ensure long-term sustainability. Through strategic financial planning, the Chief Financial Officer supports the company's ability to invest in advanced technology and infrastructure, ultimately driving value for stakeholders while maintaining a strong balance sheet across all regional operations.

    Willa Hart - Government Services Chief of Staff (Operations)

    Willa Hart, the Government Services Chief of Staff (Operations) at AAR, coordinates the execution of complex defense and government-focused aviation projects. This leadership role involves streamlining operational workflows to ensure that service delivery meets the stringent requirements of government contracts. Willa Hart directs the daily activities of specialized teams, ensuring that maintenance and supply chain initiatives remain on schedule and within budget. By managing cross-functional communication, the Government Services Chief of Staff (Operations) ensures that all departments remain aligned with the specific needs of defense customers. This executive position requires deep knowledge of aerospace logistics and the ability to navigate the complexities of government procurement. The Government Services Chief of Staff (Operations) monitors operational performance metrics to identify areas for improvement and efficiency gains. Through proactive management, the Government Services Chief of Staff (Operations) ensures that the company continues to provide reliable, high-quality support for critical government aviation missions globally.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding AAR Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads AAR?
    AAR is led by Rahul Deb (Md. Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as John Holmes (Chairman, President & Chief Executive Officer) and Edwin Powers (Chief Financial Officer).
    Who is part of AAR’s executive team?
    The executive team of AAR includes leaders such as Rahul Deb (Md. Chief Executive Officer), John Holmes (Chairman, President & Chief Executive Officer), Edwin Powers (Chief Financial Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does AAR have?
    AAR has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in AAR’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of AAR includes roles such as Md. Chief Executive Officer, Chairman, President & Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Government Services Chief of Staff (Operations).