ALBUQUERQUE, NM — September 2, 2008 — Today Eclipse Aviation, manufacturer of the world’s first very light jet (VLJ), announced it has established a new divisional structure in support of the company’s operational excellence strategy. Peg Billson, previously the company’s chief operating officer, has been appointed president and general manager of the Eclipse Manufacturing Division and Mike McConnell, previously vice president of sales and marketing, will serve as president and general manager of the Eclipse Customer Division. In addition Mark Borseth, Eclipse’s chief financial officer will lead the newly established Process Improvement Teams to ensure the success of both divisions. All three executives will continue to report to CEO Roel Pieper as part of the executive management team.
As the new CEO of Eclipse Aviation, Mr. Pieper continues to move swiftly to make the organizational and executive changes necessary to rapidly advance his operational excellence strategy. “I have been directly involved in several turnaround efforts over the course of my career and believe these changes will be instrumental in driving world-class manufacturing and a superior customer experience. I have absolute confidence in this leadership team’s ability to deliver the profitable results this company requires,” said Pieper.
The new divisional structure consists of two individual operating units with a corporate infrastructure to ensure common processes, procedures and reporting. The Manufacturing Division will include engineering, supply chain, quality, production and flight operations. The Customer Division will be comprised of marketing, sales, customer support, product support and flight training. The backbone of the company is the common corporate staff that will include finance, legal, HR, public relations, brand management, business development, strategic planning, research and technology planning.
About Eclipse Aviation
Eclipse Aviation is the world’s leading very light jet (VLJ) manufacturer, producing innovative, affordable jets that are revolutionizing air transportation. The company created the VLJ category with the design, certification and delivery of the Eclipse 500® — the industry's first VLJ. Eclipse applies advances in technology, manufacturing processes and business practices to create high-performance aircraft that provide the lowest cost of jet ownership ever achieved. By changing the value proposition for private jet travel, Eclipse is allowing more pilots to enter the world of jet-powered aviation and enabling a new generation of entrepreneurs to help business travelers move between cities on a quick, affordable and convenient basis. Contact Eclipse at www.eclipseaviation.com.
