CHC Helicopter has appointed Tom Burke as its new CEO. Burke, who will start his new role on February 1st, replaces Jørn Madsen who has decided to step down as president and CEO.

Burke joins the company, specialising in helicopter support to the offshore energy market, search and rescue, and government organisations, from energy transition specialist SCF. He currently serves as operating partner for the company which focuses on building European energy transition businesses. He is also a director on the Score Group and Hydrasun boards.

Commenting on his new role, Burke said: “In the coming years, we have an opportunity to take this business to greater heights. Through the collective efforts of our global teams, we will position CHC Helicopter as the leader in vertical aviation. This represents a new era for CHC and I am excited to lead the business at this pivotal time.”

Burke received a PhD in Engineering Science (Robotics) from Trinity College, the University of Oxford and an undergraduate degree in Mechanical Engineering from Heriot-Watt University in Scotland. Among previous roles, he worked with Valaris, the world’s largest offshore drilling contractor.

Madsen joined CHC Helicopter in February 2023 to fous on a new growth strategy, improving operational efficiency and exploiting new opportunities for CHC’s helicopter services and maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) business.

Madsen said: “We spent considerable time reviewing our operations, market dynamics, and opportunities for growth – and the result is a new, re-focused growth strategy. With the strategic phase of this work complete, I have made the difficult decision to step away from CHC to prioritise my other professional and personal commitments.”

Harry Quarls, chairman of CHC’s Board of Managers said: “On behalf of the board, I would like to thank Jørn for his effective leadership. Over the past year, the senior leadership team has defined a path towards growth and innovation. We are delighted to welcome Tom Burke and are confident the company is well positioned to be the global leader in vertical aviation.”

Meanwhile, CHC Helicopter’s MRO business is Heli-One. Read Helicopter Investor’s interview with Colin Smith, who was appointed head of Growth and Strategy at Heli-One last autumn, here.