Management

NFI Announces CEO Transition

By The Northwire Desk — AI Analysis Dec 17, 2025 · 16:30 NFI · 14.46 NFI GROUP INC.

NFI · Price

NFI Group Inc. announced that John Sapp will assume the role of President and CEO effective January 1, 2026, succeeding retiring founder‑CEO Paul Soubry.
The Board highlighted Sapp’s extensive aerospace and industrial experience (Eaton Aerospace, Collins Aerospace, GE Aviation) as a catalyst for the next phase of operational execution and growth.
Paul Soubry will step down from the Board on the same date but will remain in an advisory capacity for one year to ensure a smooth transition.

Appointment: John Sapp appointed President & CEO, effective 2026‑01‑01; will also join the Board of Directors on that date.
Retirement: Paul Soubry retires after 16 years as CEO (2009‑2025) and will leave the Board, continuing in an advisory role through 2026.
Background of John Sapp:
President, Eaton Aerospace division (since 2023) – led a global team of >12,000 employees; delivered record revenue & operating profit in 2025.
Former Vice President & General Manager, Collins Aerospace; previously VP, Commercial Aftermarket Sales and Support.
Over 11 years at GE Aviation in sales and commercial programs.
U.S. Air Force F‑15 fighter pilot and instructor; graduate of the U.S. Air Force Academy; MBA from NYU.
Board Process: Appointment resulted from a global search overseen by the Board’s Human Resources, Compensation & Governance Committee with assistance from a leading third‑party executive recruitment firm.
Strategic Focus (per Sapp): Enhancing customer experience, improving operational performance, driving growth, and creating stakeholder value.
Company Context: Under Paul Soubry, NFI grew to a $13 billion backlog, expanded globally, and launched numerous new products/services across bus and coach platforms.

“We are thrilled to announce John as NFI’s new CEO,” – Colin Robertson, Board Chair.
“Our focus … will be on enhancing the customer experience, improving operational performance, driving growth, and creating value for all stakeholders,” – John Sapp, incoming President & CEO.
“It has been an honor… to lead NFI over the past 16 years… we’ve grown into a global player with a $13 billion backlog,” – Paul Soubry.

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