Jet Support Services, Inc. (JSSI), an independent provider of maintenance support and financial tools to the business aviation industry, has appointed Ben Hockenberg as chief operating officer. In his new role, Hockenberg will lead the technical services team and maintenance software operations while continuing to lead JSSI Parts & Leasing, the procurement, parts trading and engine leasing arm of the company. The creation of this position signifies JSSI's commitment to an efficient and integrated operational backbone to support its ecosystem of products and services.

Hockenberg joined JSSI in 2020 as president of JSSI Parts & Leasing and has been instrumental in furthering the company's mission to enhance support, maximise aircraft availability and control costs for JSSI's global client base. JSSI Parts & Leasing has become a trusted one-stop source for airframe and engine parts and components for the global business aviation aftermarket, helping operators, OEMs and maintenance facilities maximise aircraft availability. Under Hockenberg's leadership, the business has tripled its size, while deploying inventory in strategic locations, expanding in-stock lines of inventory from approximately 25,000 to more than 70,000 parts that support the majority of in-service business aircraft; and building a unique lease asset portfolio that now includes more than 60 engines and APUs across many platforms.

“Ben joined the team in the midst of a global pandemic and challenging supply chain environment, when the industry needed to come together to find new and creative ways to service customers. Ben has successfully executed on the strategy to leverage JSSI's data, technical expertise, reach and procurement capabilities to benefit our customers, turning an industry crisis into a positive; a testament to his ability and impact, strategic thinking and execution mindset,” says JSSI CEO Neil Book.

Hockenberg adds: “JSSI has evolved quite a bit over the past three years as we continue to expand the portfolio of products and services geared to simplify the economic and technical complexities of aircraft maintenance. As we bring these products to market, JSSI needs to ensure strong infrastructure and processes to support delivery of the world-class support our customers deserve. The maintenance software, tech services and procurement teams represent the voice of our customers. I am excited for the opportunity to work with these dynamic teams to set the stage for our next phase of growth.”

Book goes on: “His relentless drive, unwavering enthusiasm and exceptional intellect have propelled him to assume increasingly complex operational responsibilities across JSSI, elevating our entire organisation in the process.”

Prior to joining JSSI, Hockenberg was focused on alternative investments across multiple sectors, including aerospace. He brings a unique perspective to the business through his background in investment banking, private equity and credit investing at organisations such as Deutsche Bank, The Pritzker Organisation, Venor Capital and Greenbriar Asset Management.