MESA, Arizona: July 31, 2024 – MD Helicopters, LLC (MDH), is pleased to announce the promotions and expansion of its Executive Leadership Team. These appointments reflect the company’s commitment to exceptional leadership and its dedication to continuous improvement.
Effective immediately, the following individuals have assumed these roles:
Daniel Searcy, Vice President of Aftermarket
Mr. Searcy was previously the Sr. Director of Aftermarket Customer Support. In that role, he led the turnaround of MDH’s customer service group and helped revive MD’s parts supply, which led to a 120% growth in spares and repairs volume in just two years. He was also instrumental in making the global network of authorized service centers and parts retailers stronger than ever. In his new role, he will be responsible for all aspects of MDH’s aftermarket business from spare parts and repair & overhaul to customer service, technical support, and the upcoming fielded fleet upgrades MDH announced at HAI 2024. Additionally, he will oversee the marketing department and program management for both aftermarket and production with the primary focus being on-time delivery by working closely with supply chain and operations. Mr. Searcy holds a BS in Aeronautics from Embry Riddle University and has been a member of the MDH team for over ten years.
Todd Heussner, Vice President of Operations & Supply Chain
Mr. Heussner was previously Sr. Director, Supply Chain. In that role, he quickly built a team that proactively supported customer requirements while dramatically improving supply availability and responsiveness. His team has reduced wait times and improved cash flow and has positively impacted internal and external operations. He will be responsible for leading manufacturing and supply chain strategies and has a wealth of experience in U.S. Army logistics and civilian experience working for Leidos, Ernst & Young, and Georgia Iron Works. Mr. Heussner holds an MS in Logistics Management, an MS in National Security and Strategy from the U.S. Army War College and holds a Six Sigma Green Belt.
Fred Kaplan, Chief Financial Officer
Mr. Kaplan has over 35+ years of experience in defense and aerospace, aviation, and consulting industries, as well as CEO, COO, and CFO roles in public and private sectors. He has served in the CFO position at O’Hare International, Midway International, and Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport, and he has been part of several turnarounds. He has his MS in Finance from the University of Illinois and his BS in Commerce with a major in Finance from Depaul University.
“MD Helicopters is making significant progress in improving our customer support and these promotions and hires will be instrumental in continuing our success.” says Ryan Weeks, president at MD Helicopters. “Each of these individuals have demonstrated exceptional dedication, strategic vision, and leadership in their respective roles and I look forward to their continued impact as part of our executive team.”
About MD Helicopters
MD Helicopters, LLC (MDH) manufactures high-performance rotorcraft solutions that support operators flying military, commercial, law enforcement, utility, and VIP mission profiles. With thousands of aircraft in service worldwide, MDH has been designing and building aircraft known for their safety, versatility, responsiveness, speed, and reliability since 1947. Our commitment to product sustainment and customer success allows MDH to deliver aircraft unmatched in their performance and reliability. MD Helicopters, LLC is owned by an investment consortium comprised of MBIA Insurance, Bardin Hill Investment Partners LP, and MB Global Partners. To learn more about MD Helicopters, visit us at mdhelicopters.com, or follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.
Contact:
Ashley Sanchez, Director of Marketing and Communications
MD Helicopters
Email: Ashley.sanchez@mdhelicopters.com
480-346-6454
