CEO Named To Company's Board Of Directors

Aero-News learned Thursday whole-airplane parachute recovery system manufacturer Ballistic Recovery Systems has appointed CEO Larry E. Williams to its Board of Directors. Officials at BRS say the move signifies the company's focus on aligning the organization to respond to the market’s rapidly growing acceptance of whole airplane parachute systems. 

"Larry William’s leadership and expertise in the aviation industry adds real value to our company," said BRS Chairman Robert L. Nelson said. "In his two-year tenure as CEO, he's proven himself a capable leader. Under his direction he has raised the bar, and produced sustained and continued growth for BRS."

"We feel that William’s appointment to the Board is crucial in continuing our focus on building BRS and increasing our global presence in both civilian and government markets," Nelson added. "We look forward to his increased involvement within our organization."

Williams served as CEO of BRS beginning in December 2004, following a number of other executive-level roles. In 1999, Williams became Vice President of Business Development for AmSafe Aviation, the world's largest manufacturer of aviation restraints including the AmSafe Aviation Inflatable Restraint (airbag), following five years at Rural Metro Corporation as Group President. 

"I am honored to be appointed to the BRS Board," Williams said. "BRS is the leading worldwide whole airplane emergency recovery parachute company, and as we continue to focus on new products for new aircraft, I look forward to my expanding role in guiding these efforts.  BRS is the major league player in the marketplace, and the commitment of BRS to aviation safety - and getting as many parachutes on as many airplanes as possible - is evident via their recent accomplishments."

In addition to his appointment to the BRS Board, Williams will remain as CEO. He alsos serve as Chairman of the General Aviation Manufacturers Association's Safety Affairs and Training Committee.

Based in South St. Paul, Minnesota, BRS designs, manufactures and distributes whole-plane emergency parachute systems for use on general aviation and recreational aircraft. Since 1981, BRS has delivered more than 22,000 parachute systems to aircraft owners around the world including over 2,800 systems on certified aircraft such as the Cirrus SR20 and SR22.

As Aero-News reported, BRS also announced in July an agreement to develop the first civilian jet parachute system for the new single engine Diamond Jet.

FMI: www.brsparachutes.com