Jet Aviation has named Dave Paddock as group president, effective 1 July. Paddock succeeds Rob Smith, who has served the company in this role since 2014. Smith is leaving Jet Aviation to join General Dynamics' Marine Systems business unit.

A 20-year industry veteran, Paddock joined Jet Aviation in January 2007 as VP of business development and strategic planning. He was appointed to his current position of SVP regional operations USA in January 2015, where he is responsible for acquisitions, facility expansions and the portfolio of company services. Prior to joining Jet Aviation, he served as VP and managing officer for SH&E, specialising in business aviation strategy, market analysis and planning.

“As regional lead for the Americas and a valued member of the Jet leadership team, Dave has overseen the company's Dulles and Avjet acquisitions, as well the facility expansions in Bedford, Palm Beach, Van Nuys and Teterboro,” Smith comments. “I have every confidence that he will continue to do great things for our customers, our shareholders and our employees moving forward. I wish him and the leadership team every continued success.”

General Dynamics chairman and CEO Phebe N. Novakovic adds: “With Dave Paddock's in-depth understanding of Jet Aviation, he will ensure that we continue to meet our customers' needs across the portfolio.”

General Dynamics has appointed Smith as executive VP of its Marine Systems segment, effective 1 July. He succeeds John P. Casey, who will retire on 30 June.