Piper Aircraft Inc. announced on June 10 the resignation of James K. Bass from his job as president and CEO, and the promotion of two senior executives.
Kevin J. Gould, Piper’s vice president of operations, will become chief executive officer and John Becker, vice president of engineering, will take over as president of the company, effective, June 26.
“All things come to an end,” Bass said in remarks to Piper employees. “I have successfully completed my mission at Piper and am leaving the company in very capable hands. What I was brought in to do has been done, and it is now time for me to move on to other challenges. Kevin, John and the rest of the management team are exceptionally talented and dedicated to the future of Piper. They are seasoned, highly determined, and will continue what we have created: a results-driven culture.
“My primary focus when I came to Piper in 2005 was to turn the company around, create a strong, highly competitive business, and make Piper a compelling choice for potential buyers,” Bass said. “Now, with the sale of Piper to Imprimis, we have achieved that major milestone.”
