Rankin leaves Columbia Helicopters, Bandy now president
The company has promoted Steve Bandy, previously senior vice-president of operations, as its new president.
On 28 June, Columbia Helicopters Inc. announced that Jim Rankin, president and CEO, has resigned with effect from 30 June. The company has promoted Steve Bandy, previously senior vice-president of operations, as its new president. The company said it is ‘retiring’ the CEO position.
The US-based company reflected stated that Rankin led Columbia during a downturn in the oil and gas industry which negatively affected the heavy-lift helicopter industry, as Columbia sought to diversify into broader global markets for aerial lift services, its maintenance, repair and overhaul business, and the company’s continued expansion of its Government Services business.
Columbia Helicopters board chair Stan Wilson said: “We are grateful for the leadership Jim has provided the past two and a half years. While most of our competitors have been significantly impacted by the economic conditions in our industry, we have been able to grow our business while others have struggled.”
Jim Rankin commented: “It’s been my pleasure working with all of Columbia’s employees, the board and the Lematta family. This new organisational structure ideally positions Columbia for the foreseeable future and I know Steve Bandy will do a great job leading the company. I’m excited to watch as Columbia continues its legacy as the premier, heavy-lift helicopter operator in the years ahead.”
Bandy joined Columbia Helicopters in April 1989 and has since served in a variety of roles across the company, said the firm, starting as a pilot and including his most recent role of senior vice-president of operations.
Wilson said: “Steve has over 28 years with Columbia, and has done a remarkable job of leading our operational departments including flight operations, maintenance, and the QES group. We can think of no one with more passion, drive, vision and dedication to our employees than Steve. We are confident with Steve at the helm, we will be able to be strategically positioned to continue to be the leader in our industry while continuing to exceed customer expectations.”
Steve Bandy added: “I am excited to lead this great team as we move forward both operationally and strategically. I’m grateful to the ownership Board and Columbia family for their confidence and trust in me.”