CHC Helicopter has added another crucial member to its management team with the appointment of John Graber as president of CHC Helicopter Services.

Graber, who reports directly to CHC Helicopter president and CEO, Bill Amelio, replaces interim president Scott Pinfield.

“In John Graber we have a leader who brings a wealth of experience tackling the challenges we will face as CHC Helicopter grows,” said Amelio. “Not only is Mr. Graber an experienced pilot, but he’s got an accomplished resume of business success in both operational and strategic roles.”

Over his career, Graber has led successful turnarounds for three major US-based companies. As the general manager and senior vice president of operations at ATA Airlines from 2004 – 2006, he was part of the senior team that led ATA Airlines through emergence from Chapter 11 bankruptcy.

The next year, as president of large aircraft MRO AAR Aircraft Services Indianapolis, he undertook a successful turnaround of the business by focusing on revenue growth and lean initiatives.

Most recently, as president of ABX Air, Mr. Graber’s team completely restructured the company into a profitable, $500 million enterprise when it faced an unprecedented drop in customer demand.

“Mr. Graber has a long history in the airline industry and that experience plays well into the challenges and opportunities CHC Helicopter faces,” said Amelio. “As an experienced helicopter pilot and army aviator, Mr. Graber is also very knowledgeable about helicopter operations and shares CHC’s commitment to safety, which makes him a well-rounded choice for this position.”

Graber, who currently resides in Loveland, Ohio, has an MBA Cum Laude from the University of Notre Dame and has extensive military experience.  He was decorated for his service as a medevac Flight Section Leader in Iraq during Operation Desert Storm.

“CHC has the world’s best reputation for providing safe, excellent customer service in demanding global operations.  The company has much to be proud of in its history,” said Graber.   “I want to help the team grow the business, positioning CHC so our team has much to be proud of long into the future.”