Mente Group, an aviation advisory and brokerage firm, has appointed Rich Ropp as Managing Director, based in St. Louis, strengthening the firm’s advisory and transaction capabilities in a key Midwest market.
Ropp has decades of experience in the private aviation sector, with a career spanning aircraft sales, operations, management and business development across several of the industry’s most recognised companies.
In his new role, he will focus on aircraft transactions, client advisory services and strategic growth initiatives throughout the central United States.
Brian Proctor, CEO of Mente Group, said: “Rich Ropp’s depth of experience across every facet of business aviation makes him a tremendous addition to our team.
“His leadership, market knowledge and client-first approach align perfectly with our mission to deliver exceptional advisory services.”
Steve Main, Chief Revenue Officer of Mente Group, said: “Rich brings a unique combination of operational expertise and sales leadership that will further enhance our ability to serve clients in the Midwest and beyond.
“His track record of building relationships and driving growth will be invaluable as we continue to expand.”
Prior to joining Mente Group, Ropp held senior leadership roles at organisations including Priester Aviation (now GJP Aviation), where he served as Chief Sales & Service Officer, overseeing multiple operating bases and a large managed fleet.
He also served as Senior Vice President of Enterprise Sales at flyExclusive and held executive leadership positions at Jet Linx Aviation, where he played a key role in launching new markets and driving revenue growth nationwide.