FTAI Aviation Ltd. has announced a key leadership change within its finance organization, appointing new executives to oversee the company’s financial strategy and accounting operations. The company confirmed that Nicholas McAleese has been named Chief Financial Officer (CFO), while Michael Hazan has been appointed Chief Accounting Officer (CAO), with both appointments taking effect immediately. The changes mark a new chapter in the financial leadership of the aviation-focused company as it continues to expand its operations and strengthen its corporate structure.
Leadership Transition in Finance Department
The appointments follow the departure of Eun (Angela) Nam, who previously served as both Chief Financial Officer and Chief Accounting Officer at the company. Nam has decided to leave the organization to pursue a new professional opportunity at another publicly traded company outside the aviation sector.
Although she will be stepping away from her formal roles, Nam will continue to support the company during the transition period. She will work closely with the incoming financial leadership team in an advisory capacity to help ensure continuity and stability in financial operations. This collaborative approach is intended to provide a smooth transfer of responsibilities and maintain operational efficiency as the new leaders assume their positions.
The leadership transition reflects the company’s emphasis on internal talent development and succession planning. By promoting experienced executives who already understand the company’s operations and strategic priorities, the organization aims to maintain stability while positioning itself for future growth.
Nicholas McAleese Appointed Chief Financial Officer
Nicholas McAleese, who previously served as Senior Vice President of Financial Planning and Analysis (FP&A), has been promoted to the role of Chief Financial Officer. In his new position, McAleese will oversee the company’s financial strategy, capital allocation, investor relations, financial planning, and overall financial management.
Since joining the organization in 2022, McAleese has played a significant role in strengthening the company’s corporate finance infrastructure. His work has included building and expanding key financial planning and analysis capabilities, improving internal financial reporting processes, and supporting strategic decision-making across the organization.
During his tenure as head of FP&A, McAleese contributed to the development of financial models and forecasting tools that have helped leadership evaluate investment opportunities and operational performance. His efforts have supported the company’s ability to manage growth while maintaining financial discipline.
In his new role as CFO, McAleese is expected to lead the finance team in aligning financial strategies with the company’s long-term objectives. His deep familiarity with the company’s operations and financial systems positions him well to guide the organization through its next phase of development.
Michael Hazan Named Chief Accounting Officer
Alongside the CFO appointment, the company also announced that Michael Hazan will serve as Chief Accounting Officer. Hazan previously held the position of Senior Vice President and Controller, where he was responsible for managing the company’s accounting operations and financial reporting functions.
Hazan joined the company in 2017 and has since played a critical role in overseeing accounting processes, regulatory compliance, and financial disclosures. His responsibilities have included managing public company reporting requirements, implementing internal controls, and ensuring the accuracy and transparency of the company’s financial statements.
As Chief Accounting Officer, Hazan will continue to oversee these essential functions while taking on additional leadership responsibilities within the finance organization. His expertise in accounting standards, financial reporting, and operational finance will be key to maintaining the company’s financial integrity as it grows.
With years of experience in accounting leadership within a publicly traded company environment, Hazan brings a strong foundation in financial governance and compliance. His appointment underscores the organization’s commitment to maintaining robust financial oversight and reporting standards.
CEO Joe Adams Highlights Strength of Internal Leadership
Joe Adams, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the company, expressed confidence in the newly appointed financial leaders and emphasized the importance of their experience within the organization.
Adams noted that both executives have been instrumental in the company’s progress in recent years. Their familiarity with the company’s operations, strategy, and financial systems positions them well to guide the organization’s finance function as it continues to evolve.
He highlighted McAleese’s strong financial leadership and his comprehensive understanding of the business, noting that these qualities will support the company’s strategic initiatives and operational goals. At the same time, Adams praised Hazan’s extensive expertise in accounting, public company reporting, and financial controls, which he described as essential for maintaining high standards of financial management.
Together, the two executives will lead the company’s finance and accounting teams, ensuring that financial operations remain aligned with broader corporate objectives.
Recognizing Angela Nam’s Contributions
As part of the leadership transition, the company also recognized the significant contributions of Angela Nam during her long tenure with the organization. Nam spent more than a decade with the company, playing an important role in shaping its financial strategy and supporting its development.
During her twelve years with the organization, Nam helped guide the company through various phases of growth and transformation. Her leadership contributed to the development of strong financial processes and helped establish the company’s reputation for disciplined financial management.
CEO Joe Adams expressed appreciation for Nam’s dedication and service, acknowledging her impact on the company’s success and thanking her for her commitment over the years. He also extended best wishes for her future endeavors as she begins the next stage of her professional career.
Commitment to a Smooth Transition
Although Nam is leaving the company, she has expressed her intention to remain involved during the transition period to support the incoming finance leaders. By providing guidance and sharing her institutional knowledge, she aims to help ensure a seamless handover of responsibilities.
Nam expressed gratitude for the opportunity to work alongside the company’s leadership team and employees during her tenure. She highlighted the collaborative environment and the professionalism of her colleagues, noting that the experience had been both rewarding and meaningful.
Her willingness to assist during the transition reflects the company’s collaborative culture and the strong relationships developed among its leadership team.
Positioning the Company for Continued Growth
The leadership changes within the finance department come at a time when the company continues to expand its operations and pursue new opportunities in the aviation sector. Strengthening the finance leadership team is an important step in supporting these ambitions.
With McAleese and Hazan taking on expanded responsibilities, the company aims to build on the financial foundation established over the past decade. Their combined experience in corporate finance, financial planning, accounting, and reporting is expected to enhance the organization’s ability to manage growth effectively.
The appointments also demonstrate the company’s focus on developing internal talent and promoting leaders who understand the business from within. This approach not only preserves institutional knowledge but also fosters continuity and stability within the organization.
As the new CFO and CAO step into their roles, the company’s leadership team remains focused on executing its strategic priorities and delivering value to shareholders. The strengthened finance leadership is expected to play a key role in supporting operational initiatives, financial planning, and long-term growth strategies.
By combining experienced leadership with a strong financial governance framework, the company is positioning itself to navigate the evolving aviation industry and capitalize on emerging opportunities.
With a new financial leadership team in place and the support of outgoing executive Angela Nam during the transition period, the organization is well positioned to continue advancing its financial strategy and operational excellence in the years ahead.
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