AAR Executive and Leadership Team

October, 2026

Leadership Overview

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

Focused on delivering comprehensive aviation solutions, AAR maintains a commitment to operational excellence while supporting global defense and commercial aviation sectors through innovative service delivery and strategic market expansion.

Leadership Roles at AAR

  • Chairman, President & Chief Executive Officer - John Holmes
  • Chief Financial Officer - Edwin Powers
  • Government Services Chief of Staff (Operations) - Willa Hart
  • Managing Director - Niteen Nagine
  • John Holmes - Chairman, President & Chief Executive Officer

    John Holmes, the Chairman, President & Chief Executive Officer at AAR, directs the overarching corporate strategy for this global aviation services provider. Holmes manages the alignment of commercial and government business units to ensure consistent growth across international markets. By overseeing long-term capital allocation and board relations, the Chairman, President & Chief Executive Officer maintains the competitive positioning of the organization within the aerospace industry. John Holmes drives the execution of high-level initiatives that enhance service delivery for defense and commercial clients. This leadership role involves constant evaluation of market trends to optimize the portfolio of aviation products. Through rigorous oversight of organizational performance, the Chairman, President & Chief Executive Officer secures the financial health and operational integrity of the enterprise. Strategic decision-making remains the primary focus, ensuring that the company meets complex demands within the global aviation landscape while fostering sustainable value for all stakeholders.
    John Holmes

    Edwin Powers - Chief Financial Officer

    Edwin Powers, the Chief Financial Officer at AAR, directs the financial strategy and fiscal health of the organization. Powers manages capital structure, financial reporting, and investor relations to support the long-term objectives of the aviation services business. By overseeing internal audits and risk management frameworks, the Chief Financial Officer ensures compliance and transparency across all global operations. Edwin Powers drives the allocation of resources toward high-growth areas within the aerospace and defense sectors. This leadership role involves close collaboration with the executive team to evaluate the financial viability of new service offerings and market expansions. Through the implementation of rigorous cost-control measures, the Chief Financial Officer optimizes operational efficiency. Powers maintains the fiscal discipline necessary to navigate the complexities of the aviation industry. By providing accurate financial forecasting, the Chief Financial Officer enables the company to make informed decisions that sustain growth and enhance shareholder value in a competitive global market.

    Willa Hart - Government Services Chief of Staff (Operations)

    Willa Hart, the Government Services Chief of Staff (Operations) at AAR, directs the operational workflows supporting defense and government aviation contracts. Hart manages the coordination between internal departments to ensure that complex service requirements meet strict regulatory and performance standards. By overseeing the execution of government-focused projects, the Government Services Chief of Staff (Operations) ensures that the company delivers reliable support for critical defense missions. Willa Hart drives the alignment of operational resources with the specific needs of government customers. This leadership role involves streamlining internal processes to improve response times and service quality for public sector clients. Through the management of cross-functional teams, the Government Services Chief of Staff (Operations) facilitates the successful delivery of aviation maintenance and logistics solutions. Hart maintains a focus on operational excellence, ensuring that the company remains a trusted partner for government agencies while optimizing the efficiency of specialized defense-related service delivery.

    Niteen Nagine - Managing Director

    Niteen Nagine, the Managing Director at AAR, oversees regional business development and operational execution within key international markets. Nagine directs the expansion of aviation service capabilities to meet the specific requirements of commercial customers across diverse geographic territories. By coordinating with local teams, the Managing Director ensures that service delivery remains consistent with global quality standards. Niteen Nagine manages the integration of regional supply chain logistics to support the broader aviation and defense objectives of the company. This leadership role involves identifying emerging market opportunities and translating those insights into actionable business plans. Through the management of regional partnerships, the Managing Director strengthens the market presence of the organization. Nagine drives efficiency in local operations, ensuring that the company maintains a robust footprint while delivering specialized support to aviation clients. The focus remains on scaling regional operations to bolster the overall competitive advantage of the firm.

    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding AAR Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads AAR?
    AAR is led by John Holmes (Chairman, President & Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Edwin Powers (Chief Financial Officer) and Willa Hart (Government Services Chief of Staff (Operations)).
    Who is part of AAR’s executive team?
    The executive team of AAR includes leaders such as John Holmes (Chairman, President & Chief Executive Officer), Edwin Powers (Chief Financial Officer), Willa Hart (Government Services Chief of Staff (Operations)) 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 Chairman, President & Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Government Services Chief of Staff (Operations), Managing Director.