GKN Aerospace Executive and Leadership Team

September, 2026

Leadership Overview

GKN Aerospace has 4 executives leading key functions including organizational strategy, financial oversight, composite systems management, and defense operations.

Focused on engineering excellence, GKN Aerospace delivers critical airframe and engine structures to global aviation partners while maintaining a commitment to innovation and high-performance manufacturing standards across the aerospace sector.

Leadership Roles at GKN Aerospace

  • Chief Financial Officer - Rich Viola
  • Chief Financial Officer, Advanced Composite Systems - Sheila Foster
  • President, Gkn Advanced Defense Systems - Stephen Carlin
  • Chief of Staff - Anneth Avila
  • Rich Viola - Chief Financial Officer

    Rich Viola, the Chief Financial Officer at GKN Aerospace, directs the global financial strategy and capital allocation for the entire organization. Viola oversees fiscal planning, risk management, and investor relations to ensure sustainable growth across all manufacturing divisions. By analyzing market trends in the aerospace industry, the Chief Financial Officer optimizes cost structures for landing gear and electrical interconnection systems production. Rich Viola manages the financial health of the company while supporting large-scale investments in new technology and aftermarket services. This executive role requires close coordination with other C-suite leaders to align budgetary goals with operational output. Through precise financial modeling and rigorous auditing, the Chief Financial Officer maintains transparency and fiscal discipline. Viola secures the necessary funding for expansion into emerging markets, ensuring that the company remains a dominant supplier for commercial and military aircraft prime contractors on a global scale.

    Sheila Foster - Chief Financial Officer, Advanced Composite Systems

    Sheila Foster, the Chief Financial Officer, Advanced Composite Systems at GKN Aerospace, manages the financial performance and strategic investment portfolio for the advanced composites division. Foster oversees the budgeting process for specialized manufacturing facilities, ensuring that resource allocation supports the development of high-performance airframe structures. By monitoring production costs and material efficiency, the Chief Financial Officer, Advanced Composite Systems drives profitability within this critical business unit. Sheila Foster collaborates with engineering leads to evaluate the financial viability of new composite technologies and manufacturing processes. This leadership role involves managing complex supply chain expenditures and ensuring that the division meets stringent quality standards for global aerospace clients. Through detailed financial analysis, the Chief Financial Officer, Advanced Composite Systems identifies opportunities for operational improvements and margin expansion. Foster maintains strict control over capital expenditures, ensuring that the division contributes effectively to the overall financial stability and technological leadership of the company.

    Stephen Carlin - President, Gkn Advanced Defense Systems

    Stephen Carlin, the President, Gkn Advanced Defense Systems at GKN Aerospace, directs the strategic vision and operational execution for the defense-focused business segment. Carlin oversees the development and delivery of specialized structures and systems tailored for military aircraft prime contractors. By managing large-scale defense programs, the President, Gkn Advanced Defense Systems ensures that all engineering outputs meet the rigorous requirements of global defense agencies. Stephen Carlin coordinates with internal research teams to integrate cutting-edge technology into defense platforms, maintaining a competitive edge in the sector. This leadership role involves navigating complex regulatory environments and fostering partnerships with international defense entities. Through the oversight of manufacturing operations, the President, Gkn Advanced Defense Systems drives efficiency and reliability in the production of critical defense components. Carlin ensures that the division remains aligned with the broader corporate mission of providing superior aerospace solutions while expanding the footprint of the company within the global defense market.

    Anneth Avila - Chief of Staff

    Anneth Avila, the Chief of Staff at GKN Aerospace, coordinates executive operations and aligns internal business units with the overarching corporate strategy. Avila manages cross-functional communication channels to ensure seamless integration between engineering teams and global manufacturing sites. By streamlining decision-making processes, the Chief of Staff facilitates rapid responses to shifting market demands within the tier one aerospace supply chain. Anneth Avila monitors key performance indicators across international regions to maintain operational efficiency and project delivery timelines. This leadership role involves constant collaboration with the board to refine long-term objectives and optimize resource allocation. Through rigorous oversight of internal initiatives, the Chief of Staff drives organizational agility. The Chief of Staff ensures that all departments remain synchronized with the mission of providing advanced airframe and engine structures to military and commercial prime contractors worldwide, ultimately securing the competitive position of the firm.

    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding GKN Aerospace Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads GKN Aerospace?
    GKN Aerospace is led by Rich Viola (Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Sheila Foster (Chief Financial Officer, Advanced Composite Systems) and Stephen Carlin (President, Gkn Advanced Defense Systems).
    Who is part of GKN Aerospace’s executive team?
    The executive team of GKN Aerospace includes leaders such as Rich Viola (Chief Financial Officer), Sheila Foster (Chief Financial Officer, Advanced Composite Systems), Stephen Carlin (President, Gkn Advanced Defense Systems) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does GKN Aerospace have?
    GKN Aerospace has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in GKN Aerospace’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of GKN Aerospace includes roles such as Chief Financial Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Advanced Composite Systems, President, Gkn Advanced Defense Systems, Chief of Staff.