Hong Kong Aviation Capital Appoints Paul Dwyer Head of Risk

HONG KONG, Nov. 30, 2010 /PRNewswire/ -- Hong Kong Aviation Capital ("HKAC"), a leading investor in global aviation finance, announced today it has appointed Paul Dwyer as its new Head of Risk.

Mr Dwyer will be based in Hong Kong and comes to HKAC after a long career in aviation and aircraft risk management.  Mr Dwyer is expected to begin his appointment at HKAC on December 1, 2010.

Paul has previously been the Head of Risk for Global Aviation Asset Management ("GAAM") Pty Ltd in Australia. In this role he was responsible for all risk management activities, implemented a portfolio monitoring system for a $1.8 billion portfolio spread over 19 countries and designed and implemented a comprehensive portfolio credit risk model. His work also included heading risk analysis for an IPO and advising on reporting requirements and implications of interest rate and currency movements.

Prior to GAAM, Paul was the Senior Vice President Credit and Research for Boullioun Aviation Services, Inc.  While at Boullioun he pioneered the use of loss given default, expected loss and economic capital concepts in aviation operating leasing as part of a comprehensive risk management program.

"We are very pleased to have someone of Paul's caliber joining HKAC, and see it as another important step in our development and continuing international expansion," said Mathis Shinnick, CEO, Hong Kong Aviation Capital.  

"Paul's wide experience in and knowledge of risk management will be an asset to HKAC. His extensive knowledge of risk issues and lease operations will help us rapidly consolidate our lease management business within the Allco aviation portfolio acquired early in 2010. It will help us position HKAC as a leader in the global aircraft leasing marketplace," Mr Shinnick said.

"Paul is a highly-respected executive in the aviation risk management field," said Bharat Bhise, CEO of Bravia Capital Partners and investor in HKAC.  "His hiring is a further sign of our commitment to recruit the best available talent in the industry."

"Hiring Paul will significantly enhance HKAC's position as a leading industry player whereby our investor and lender base can take additional comfort that we are focused on ensuring we are being compensated fairly for the risk profile for every investment," Mr Bhise said.

Paul has an MBA from Seattle University in Washington and a BA in international studies from Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore.

HKAC secured a portfolio of nearly US$3 billion in assets this year by completing its acquisition of Allco Aviation in early January 2010.  As part of the acquisition, HKAC retained the existing management team of the Allco Aviation portfolio.

About Hong Kong Aviation Capital

Hong Kong Aviation Capital ("HKAC") is a diversified player in the aviation industry.  HKAC is headquartered out of Hong Kong, with offices in Sydney and London.  The firm invests in commercial aircraft leases and financial instruments, and also provides aircraft management and advisory services.  HKAC's mission is to prudently invest in the global transportation and infrastructure sectors for consistent and long-term returns, creating value for its investors and clients alike.  HKAC has a highly capable team with skills and experience in both the financial industry and the management of aircraft assets.  The company's Web site can be found at www.hongkongaviation.com.

SOURCE Hong Kong Aviation Capital