CDB Aviation Lease Finance, the aircraft leasing unit of China Development Bank Financial Leasing appointed Peter Chang as its new president and CEO.

Chang will lead CDBALF into the next phase of growth by building a management team and expanding focus beyond China to continue the company’s growth momentum with a view to becoming one of the world’s leading aviation leasing companies. Chang will also focus on further product innovation and strengthening the company’s aircraft portfolio to meet the increasing demand for air travel, while shifting the company’s current approach to a more Western, customer centric focus serving all global markets.

Chang has spent nearly four decades in the aviation industry, serving in executive positions with companies in manufacturing, sales and leasing. He participated in the McDonnell Douglas China MD-82 co-production program and successfully marketed MD aircraft. He was the first to start aircraft operating leasing in China while serving as managing director for Guinness Peat Aviation. He founded China Aviation Marketing Services, a China-focused consulting firm, which represented aviation entities such as FedEx, Rockwell Collins, ATR, Gulfstream, GPA, Thompson, Boullioun Aviation Services, Aviation Capital Group and Singapore Aircraft Leasing Enterprise. He also served as executive vice president for Aircastle Advisers and International Lease Finance. Prior to joining CDBALF, he was principal for China Aviation Advisors Group.

“I’m honored and humbled for this tremendous opportunity to lead CDBALF into the next stage of expansion and growth,” Chang said. “It is a unique opportunity to bridge and develop a new and dynamic global aviation leasing business that will help our industry innovate and benefit our airline customers. I look forward to utilizing my extensive aviation and leasing experience, and as importantly, my background and respect for the Chinese culture, in combination with the significance and resources of the China Development Bank, to broaden the reach of this company and ensure its future success in serving airlines globally, beyond the Chinese markets.”