Miami-headquartered Avionica has promoted Anthony Rios to chief operating officer, charged with driving strategic prioritisation and accountability for the company with a focus on operational excellence.

“Tony is a seasoned and trusted leader who consistently delivers results for Avionica,” says president Raul D Segredo. “I have complete confidence in his ability to drive our world-class product offerings with industry-leading operational practices that will extend our innovation, growth and market leadership.”

Rios will assume responsibility for engineering, marketing, operations and corporate alignments and will direct and prioritise the company's investments. He continues to report to Segredo in his new role.

“Avionica's offerings have never been more compelling and we are bringing more quality, choice and value to our customers,” adds Rios. “I am humbled and energised to help lead the company in its next phase of growth and innovation through operational excellence.”

In his previous role as vice president of sales, Rios oversaw the company's global sales in the United States, Europe, Asia, Middle East, Africa, Australia and South America. He used his training as an engineer and certified pilot, along with his extensive experience in all aspects of avionics and product development, to grow Avionica into a leader in innovation and quality. He has more than 17 years of experience in all aspects of avionics and embedded system products, including specification, development, regulatory certification, manufacturing and aircraft integration of airborne products for Avionica's Quick Access Recorders, Terminal and Cabin wireless LAN systems and satcom systems.

Previously a Unix system administrator with Florida International University, from where he had gained a BSc in computer engineering, Rios joined Avionica in 2001 as an engineering intern before becoming a software engineer. He was named research and development manager in 2007, then engineering director and vice president of engineering in 2008 and 2009.

With a passion for all things aviation, Rios holds an FAA Commercial Pilot License (SEL-PPL, MEL-PPL, MEL-CPL, Instrument, High Performance/Complex, CE500 type rating) and regularly flies general aviation aircraft for business and pleasure. He is actively involved in various ARINC working groups, and is a member of the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association.