HAECO announced the appointment of Richard Sell as its new chief executive officer. He assumed the role on July 1, 2023, succeeding Frank Walschot, who will remain as an advisor to the company.
With 20 years of leadership experience in a diverse range of industries and corporate structures, Sell brings a wealth of expertise to his new role. He most recently served as CEO of Hong Kong Aero Engine Services Ltd. (HAESL), a 50/50 joint venture between HAECO and Rolls-Royce, and as a director of Taikoo (Xiamen) Aircraft Engineering Company Ltd. and Goodrich Asia-Pacific Ltd.
Sell held management positions with several Swire group companies, including Cathay Pacific Airways, Swire Pacific, The China Navigation Company, Swire Energy Services and Swire Pacific Offshore in Hong Kong, Singapore, India and Europe. During this time, he gained experience in various sectors, including aviation, marine, retail and distribution, and was responsible for both wholly owned subsidiaries and joint ventures covering Hong Kong and the Chinese Mainland.
As the CEO of HAECO, Sell will be responsible for overseeing the group’s operations and business strategy, with a focus on driving safety, quality, and operational excellence to meet the needs of its diverse global customer base.
“I am delighted to join HAECO and lead this dynamic organization into its next phase of growth,” said Sell. “HAECO has an outstanding reputation for providing quality services and for its ‘can-do’ spirit. I am excited to work with the talented team to build on this legacy and to drive the company’s continued success.”
He holds a degree from the University of Leeds and has also attended INSEAD and Stanford University Graduate School of Business.