Columbia Helicopters hires Chris Vandersteen as CFO
Columbia Helicopters' new CFO begins his role today.
Tandem rotor specialist Columbia Helicopters has appointed Chris Vandersteen to the role of chief financial officer (CFO). Starting today, Vandersteen will lead the company’s financial strategy, overseeing all financial planning, implementation, management and controls.
Backed by more than two decades of aerospace industry experience, Vandersteen has held leadership positions at Honeywell, Bombardier/Learjet, AAR Corp, TransDigm and recently MD Helicopters, where he served as CFO. He has a proven track record in driving operational improvements by integrating financial data with functional performance, including contract analysis, pricing strategies, cost efficiency, and cash management, according to the company.
Vandersteen has joined the executive leadership team and reports to CEO David Balevic. “Chris is a highly accomplished financial leader with a strong track record of delivering results,” said Balevic. “His in-depth knowledge of the aviation industry will add significant value to Columbia. With Chris on board, our leadership team is well-positioned to drive future growth and capitalise on new opportunities.”
The new CFO praised Columbia Helicopters’ reputation as a combined manufacturer, operator and maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) specialist. “With clear opportunities for growth across all regions and sectors, I look forward to working with David and partnering with the executive leadership team during this exciting phase of expansion,” said Vandersteen.
The CEO went on to thank the company’s previous CFO, Santiago Crespo, who has left the company to pursue other opportunities. “I would like to thank Santiago for his contribution to Columbia over the past nine years, and wish him well in his future endeavours,” said Balevic.
Meanwhile, Balevic was appointed to the role of president and CEO in March 2024.
Chris Vandersteen will lead Columbia Helicopters’ company’s financial strategy, overseeing all financial planning, implementation, management and controls.
