John Leech Joins Board of Directors at GMT Global Republic Aviation Ltd.

DUBLIN, Jan. 25, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- GMT Global Republic Aviation Ltd. (GMT Global), a wholly owned subsidiary of Republic Financial Corporation, today announced that aviation industry specialist John Leech has joined its board of directors.

Mr. Leech brings more than 25 years of sales and marketing experience, mostly in commercial aviation, to GMT Global's board. An internationally recognized speaker and panelist at aviation industry conferences, Mr. Leech possesses in-depth knowledge and expertise in aircraft sales, leasing, marketing and remarketing.

In addition to his role on the GMT Global board, Mr. Leech serves as principal at Resslar Advisors, an aviation industry advisory business with offices in Dublin and London.  Previously, he was senior vice president and Head of Marketing at ORIX Aviation, responsible for the remarketing and sales of all aircraft and engines both on- and off-lease.

"GMT Global's acquisition and remarketing activities will benefit from John's wealth of knowledge, best-practices expertise and industry connections," said GMT Global CEO Randy Dietrich.  The addition of Mr. Leech reinforces GMT Global's view of the significant opportunities in the aviation market.  "We have recently added some very talented people to our team including:  Jason Bentley Moran, as Managing Director Capital Markets, Benjamin Earthman, Corporate Counsel, Michael Fay as Director of Technical Sales, and Fred Justiniano as Part-Out Program Manager."

About GMT Global Republic Aviation

GMT Global Republic Aviation is an international strategic aviation company that acquires, leases and manages a fleet of commercial aircraft. The Dublin-based company focuses on creating value through strategic growth and has adopted a "value not volume" business model. GMT Global owns and manages a portfolio of 19 aircraft. More information on the company is available at www.GMT-aviation.com.

About Republic Financial Corporation

Republic Financial Corporation is a privately held company headquartered in Aurora, Colorado, with investment interests in a diverse pool of operating companies and assets, specializing in aviation, equipment-leasing portfolios, private equity, and distressed commercial debt. Over the last five years, Republic Financial Corporation has invested in assets worth over $1 billion, achieving commercial success by developing creative solutions to difficult and complex business situations. More information available at: www.republic-financial.com.

GMT Global Republic Aviation
Booterstown Hall
Booterstown Avenue
Co. Dublin
+353.1.2103504

SOURCE GMT Global Republic Aviation