Gary B. LaGuardia
Miami Lakes, Florida, USA
**********@***********.***
*************@***.***
in/gary-laguardia-
SUMMARY
Dynamic Business Development Executive with extensive experience in the aviation sector, specializing in airline training, aircraft asset procurement and sales, contract management, compliance, and strategic partnerships. Proven track record of developing FAA and EASA-certified training programs, leading international projects, and driving business growth through innovative strategies. Expert in negotiating high-value contracts, managing cross-functional teams, and fostering global business relationships.
EXPERIENCE
Owner & Aviation Consultant 03/2015-
Aviation Management Group, Inc. / Proavia, LLC Miami, Florida
• Contracted with major flight training organization to provide continuation of existing training agreements with major airlines and flight schools. Integrated Part 61 and 141 Flight schools with Part 142 Training Organization providing ATP/CTP and Type Rating training in transport category aircraft simulators. * Conducted evaluations and assessments of aircraft simulation and training equipment for use and acquisition by Part 142 training organizations in the U.S. and Europe. • Facilitated consulting and contract compliance for aircraft and equipment acquisitions, including personnel screening and selection. • Spearheaded capital raising and investment initiatives for aircraft and engine acquisitions, enhancing leasing operations with qualified lessors. • Led global sourcing and procurement of commercial aircraft, engines, and components, enhancing client’s market position. • Negotiated key contracts with asset owners, legal advisors, investors, and end-users, strengthening client’s sales and marketing efforts • Managed direct interactions and investments between buyers, sellers, and third-party service providers, ensuring seamless transaction processes.
Director, Business Development 08/1999-03/2015
Pan Am International Flight Academy, Inc. Miami, Florida
• Drove global expansion of PanAm’s well-recognized flight-training services by establishing key alliances, acquisitions, and joint ventures with major airlines and training organizations • Developed qualified training programs under both FAA and EASA * Managed the development of Part 141 flight training with over 500 students from India. Founded Air Traffic Control, Aviation English, and Aircraft Maintenance Divisions, diversifying and strengthening the Company’s service offerings. • Led the acquisition of full-flight simulators and training devices, supporting the company's strategic growth • Managed a significant contract with Boeing and Jeppenen for the selection and training of pilots and air traffic controllers from Iraq and Afghanistan, enhancing international relations and business opportunities • Achieved an average EBITDA of over 35% across managed divisions, demonstrating exceptional financial management skills.
Director of Business Development 03/1994-08/1999
Investment, Ventures and Technology, Inc Moscow, Russia
• Directed foreign investments in aviation research and technology, including materials procurement, during a pivotal period in Russian history • Represented major international companies, including Eastman Kodak, Unisys, and Northwest Airlines, facilitating strategic alliances and technology integration • Collaborated with United Technologies aerospace divisions and the Russian Academy of Science on advanced aerospace projects, including turbine engine development and spacecraft technology. Implemented one of the Country’s first advanced computer reservation systems, including the integration of yield management programs.
Retained by a UK investment firm to manage their investment in a regional airline in Siberia with daily service to Moscow, Beijing, and other major cities. Responsible for the management of a fleet of over 70 Russian fixed-wing and rotorcraft aircraft and also provided emergency services to the local government.
Contracted for the purchase and lease of the first new Boeing aircraft in Russia that was leased through ILFC with maintenance services managed by Pemco.
Worked with the European FAA division and further developed training programs for over 200 aircrews, flight attendants, and maintenance personnel, requiring the development of conversion programs from Soviet systems to US Standards.
Director of Business Development 04/1988 – 03/1994
Palamar International Inc. Boston Massachusetts
Managed procurement and foreign investments in rotorcraft aircraft for the Government of Egypt. Represented Kaman Aerospace and Enstrom Helicopters for military and government applications. Registered with ITAR and the US Department of State for the sale and support of munitions and related articles. Represented Eastman Kodak Graphic Image Systems Division (GISD) for electronic printing systems and Kodak color algorithms for Intel-based chipsets. Awarded contract with the government publishing company in Egypt using Kodak equipment and related technologies.
Opened representative offices for Eastman Kodak in Prague, Moscow, and Cairo. Developed sales and administrative teams in all locations and monitored activities in compliance with all Kodak and US Government requirements.
EDUCATION
Physics (Electronic Engineering), Psychology, Political Science, Business Administration,
• Belknap College – Bachelor of Science
Counseling and Guidance • University of New Hampshire
SKILLS
International Business Development, Program Development, Project Management, Marketing, Consulting, Aviation Training, Contract Negotiation, Strategic Alliances, Investment Management, Procurement, Compliance Services, Cross-Cultural Communication, Brand Development, Team Development, Business Assessments, and Sales Management.
Interests
Aviation-related information technology, artificial intelligence, VTOL technologies and applications, collecting fine wine, and exotic motorcars.