Willis Lease Finance Corp., a leading lessor of commercial aircraft engines and a global provider of aviation services, announced the appointment of David Hooke as Senior Vice President, Mergers & Acquisitions, effective immediately.

Hooke will lead the Company’s global mergers and acquisitions strategy, driving portfolio growth and supporting the expansion of WLFC’s aviation leasing, trading and services platform. 

“Having worked with David for many years, I trust his integrity and admire his relentless pursuit of excellence and opportunities in the aerospace and defense industries,” said Charles F. Willis, Executive Chairman of WLFC. “His strategic insight, leadership, and investment banking experience make him an outstanding addition as we pursue continued growth.” 

“I am honored to be joining the WLFC leadership team,” said Hooke. “I look forward to collaborating with Austin and the team to accelerate growth through thoughtful acquisitions and partnerships that strengthen our global platform.”

Hooke joins WLFC after more than a decade at Bank of America, where he served as Managing Director of Investment Banking, advising clients, including WLFC, on mergers and acquisitions, public offerings and capital markets transactions.

Prior to his career in investment banking, Hooke served in the United States Marine Corps as a KC-130J Aircraft Commander, retiring after 17-years of distinguished service. During his military career he held a variety of leadership roles, including flying combat missions in Afghanistan and other undisclosed locations, and serving as a Company Commander of a Marine Corps Recruit Training Company, where he led over 500 Marines and officers.