Piper chief executive Kevin J. Gould will assume the company's presidency effective Dec. 1. Three other Piper executives have been promoted to vice president positions and one to a senior director position.

Gould will add the president's title and responsibilities to his current position as CEO upon Piper President John D. Becker's resignation, also effective Dec. 1.

"The expansion of Kevin's responsibilities and the augmentation of his management team directly reflect the strategic investments we're making in Piper's future," said Stephen W. Berger, Piper's chairman and managing partner of parent company Imprimis. "Kevin has an exciting and aggressive vision for the company that will enhance the owner and pilot experience at every level of the Piper product line. We will deliver the breakthrough PiperJet to the market and dramatically expand Piper's global market presence, especially in Asia. Kevin's team has the experience and commitment to deliver on this vision and help solidify a durable global leadership position for Piper. We are prepared to support that vision with substantial new capital."

Jeff Barger was named vice president of manufacturing operations. Dennis D. Olcott is the company's new vice president of engineering. Derek Zimmerman will become vice president for the supply chain and aftermarket development. Mary Messuti is Piper's new senior director, Asia, a newly formed position.

By Alton K. Marsh