
HEAD OF TECHNICAL
Rich Poutier is Head of Technical at CDB Aviation, bringing more than 35 years of experience in commercial aircraft operations, technical services, and asset management. He leads the lessor’s global technical organization across fleet transitions, maintenance strategy, and regulatory engagement, with a focus on operational rigor and asset value protection. Before joining CDB Aviation, Rich held senior leadership roles including Senior Vice President & Chief Technical Officer at International Lease Finance Corporation, where he directed technical operations supporting a ~1,000‑aircraft fleet and negotiated major OEM agreements; Chief Technical Officer at Mitsubishi Corporation Aviation Partners; and Senior Vice President at Structural Monitoring Systems, where he led industry‑first FAA approvals for structural health‑monitoring technology. Earlier in his career, he advanced through technical and management roles at United Airlines. An ISTAT member and frequent industry speaker, Rich has advised on complex aircraft placements and distressed‑asset recoveries across multiple jurisdictions. He holds a B.S. in Aeronautics from Saint Louis University and FAA A&P and Private Pilot certifications.
