Willis Lease Board Faces Probe Over $31.1M Pay, CEO Sells 3,400 Shares
Willis Lease Finance’s board and Executive Chairman Charles F. Willis, IV face a shareholder investigation over fiduciary breaches involving $6.2 million in 2022, $10.7 million in 2023 and $14.2 million in 2025 compensation. CEO Austin Chandler Willis sold 3,400 shares under a Rule 10b5-1 plan on April 1, 2026 for roughly $590,000 proceeds.
1. Shareholder investigation launched
A securities plaintiff firm has initiated an investigation into whether Willis Lease Finance’s board and Executive Chairman Charles F. Willis, IV breached their fiduciary duties by approving excessive compensation packages.
2. Executive compensation under scrutiny
Charles F. Willis, IV received approximately $6.2 million in 2022, $10.7 million in 2023 and $14.2 million in 2025, with over half of each annual payout in stock awards, prompting questions about governance and shareholder dilution.
3. Insider sale draws attention
On April 1, 2026 CEO Austin Chandler Willis executed a pre-arranged Rule 10b5-1 plan, selling about 3,400 shares at prices between $172 and $174.70 per share for roughly $590,000, increasing scrutiny of insider activity during the probe.