Imprimis Puts Geoffrey Berger In 'Interim' Top Spot

After the successful sale of Piper to Imprimis, industry observers were wondering when, and if, the company would take a more active role in the management of the company... we now know the answer. Geoffrey Berger, Managing Director of Imprimis' Brunei operations will serve as interim CEO of Piper Aircraft, Inc., effective immediately.

Berger will serve in that role while Piper Aircraft launches a global search for an executive to lead the company. Prior to Imprimis, Geoffrey Berger had significant experience in providing operational management to privately-held enterprises.

Berger replaces Kevin J. Gould who joined Piper in 2005 as Vice President, Operations and overhauled the company's manufacturing operations, improving both cost and quality performance.  He was promoted to CEO in June 2009, and was instrumental in facilitating the transition of ownership from the prior private equity firm to Imprimis, and in building a world class executive team.

Commenting on the management change, the Chairman of Piper's Board of Directors and Managing Partner of Imprimis, Stephen W. Berger said, "Kevin's leadership, first as VP Operations, then as CEO, served Piper well over the past 5 years. His tenure at Piper has been marked by a dedication to enhance the owner and pilot experience, his contributions to manufacturing and production excellence, and his overall leadership development- all of which will serve Piper for many years to come."

Berger added that, "As CEO, Kevin launched a number of important strategic undertakings including forming Piper Asia with their newly established base of operations in Brunei , strengthening a solid product line and launching new products including development of the PiperJet, which will be the subject of important further announcements throughout this year. Imprimis continues to fully support Piper and we look forward to bringing these and other projects to fruition."

Gould noted that, "I am proud of improving Piper's production operations, building a top notch leadership team, and getting the PiperJet program on a fast track. Piper's next phase of growth will come from intense development of international markets -- especially in Asia-Pacific. It is with a great deal of pride that I leave my friends and colleagues in the Piper family, dealers, customers and investors. I am very optimistic about Piper's future in the world's aviation industry."

Berger concluded by saying that, "Kevin Gould has been a strong and valued member of the Piper team and we know we will benefit from his counsel in the future".

FMI: www.piper.com