Mente Group, a US aviation advisory and brokerage firm, has hired Rich Ropp as managing director, based in St. Louis, strengthening the firm's advisory and transaction capabilities in a key Midwest market.

Ropp has decades of experience in the private aviation sector, with a career spanning aircraft sales, operations, management and business development across several of the industry's most recognised companies. In his new role, he will focus on aircraft transactions, client advisory services and strategic growth initiatives throughout the central United States.

“Rich Ropp's depth of experience across every facet of business aviation makes him a tremendous addition to our team,” says Brian Proctor, CEO of Mente Group. “His leadership, market knowledge and client-first approach align perfectly with our mission to deliver exceptional advisory services.”

“Rich brings a unique combination of operational expertise and sales leadership that will further enhance our ability to serve clients in the Midwest and beyond,” adds Steve Main, chief revenue officer of Mente Group. “His track record of building relationships and driving growth will be invaluable as we continue to expand.”

Prior to joining Mente Group, Ropp held senior leadership roles at organisations including Priester Aviation (now GJP Aviation), where he served as chief sales and service officer overseeing multiple operating bases and a large managed fleet. He has also served as senior vice president of enterprise sales at flyExclusive and held executive leadership positions at Jet Linx Aviation, where he played a key role in launching new markets and driving revenue growth nationwide.

Earlier in his career, Ropp held positions with Jet Aviation, JSSI, Sentient Flight Group, Million Air and Midcoast Aviation, steadily advancing through roles of increasing responsibility. He also founded and operated an aircraft detailing company serving clients in Florida and Missouri.

Mente is also welcoming back Kyle Bonda, who has rejoined the firm as senior managing director. This leadership move strengthens the firm's global sales and advisory capabilities during a period of sustained growth.

Bonda rejoins Mente Group following a tenure in new aircraft sales, during which he further developed his expertise in transactions and manufacturer relationships. He brings a distinguished background in both new and pre-owned aircraft sales and acquisitions, along with strategic asset management and operational consulting experience, to his returning role. Serving the eastern United States, Bonda will focus on high-capital transactions and projects across the territory, one of the most active markets in global business aviation.

“Welcoming Kyle back allows us to leverage his immense industry knowledge as we continue to grow,” states Proctor. “His leadership is essential as we continue to deliver elite results and sophisticated advisory services to our clients worldwide.”

“Kyle represents the high standard of excellence our clients expect,” says Main. “His expertise in OEM sales creates a powerful synergy that will drive our global go-to-market strategy.”