FTI Consulting has appointed Scott Davidson as a Senior Managing Director within its Aviation Business Transformation practice, the firm announced on . Davidson, who will be based in New York, brings nearly two decades of experience advising companies across the aviation and aerospace sectors.
The appointment signals FTI Consulting’s continued investment in bolstering its aviation expertise, according to Marc Bilbao, Global Co-Leader of the Aviation practice. “Our team continues to invest in top talent in the aviation industry that helps our clients across the value chain as they reshape strategy, transform operations and stabilize their balance sheets,” Bilbao said in a statement. Davidson’s arrival is intended to enhance the firm’s ability to deliver “comprehensive, data-driven solutions” to clients navigating a rapidly evolving industry landscape.
Davidson’s background encompasses a broad range of aviation-related challenges. He has advised airlines, aviation service providers, and aircraft and engine manufacturers on strategic, operational, and commercial issues. His specific expertise includes airline technical operations, ground operations, crew management, fleet planning, network planning, procurement, product development, and revenue management. This breadth of experience positions him to assist clients with implementing sustainable business plans, managing restructuring processes, and making capital investments.
Prior to joining FTI Consulting, Davidson was a partner at a global management consulting firm. Before that, he spent over a decade at Seabury Consulting, an aviation consultancy later acquired by Accenture, and subsequently at Kearney. This progression demonstrates a consistent focus on the aviation sector and a deepening of his consulting skillset.
Davidson’s work will also focus on helping aviation clients improve operational resilience, financial performance, and customer experience through the adoption of emerging technologies. This emphasis reflects the increasing importance of digital transformation within the industry, as companies seek to leverage data analytics, automation, and other innovations to gain a competitive edge.
The aviation industry currently faces a complex set of headwinds, including fluctuating fuel prices, labor shortages, geopolitical instability, and evolving customer expectations. These challenges require a nuanced understanding of both the operational and financial aspects of the business, making expertise like Davidson’s particularly valuable.
According to Davidson, the aviation industry is in a constant state of flux. “The aviation industry is a moving target, whether it’s a new product or customer experience, or challenges in the form of labor, logistics or geopolitics,” he stated. This acknowledgement underscores the need for adaptability and proactive planning in a sector characterized by rapid change.
FTI Consulting’s Aviation Business Transformation practice operates within the firm’s Corporate Finance & Restructuring segment, suggesting a focus on assisting clients facing significant financial or operational challenges. The practice aims to provide end-to-end solutions, from strategic planning and operational improvements to restructuring and financial advisory services.
Davidson’s experience extends to working with aircraft and engine manufacturers, where he acted as a liaison between manufacturers and airlines, providing insights into customer needs and supporting product development. This experience provides a unique perspective on the dynamics between different stakeholders within the aviation ecosystem.
Beyond traditional business consulting, Davidson also demonstrates a personal interest in improving accessibility in travel, particularly for passengers with disabilities and mobility challenges. He believes that innovation and adaptive technologies can play a key role in creating a more inclusive travel experience. This focus suggests a commitment to social responsibility alongside financial performance.
FTI Consulting, Inc. (NYSE: FCN) is a global business advisory firm offering services in areas such as restructuring, forensic accounting, and economic consulting. The firm serves a wide range of industries, including aviation, energy, healthcare, and financial services. The addition of Davidson strengthens FTI Consulting’s position as a leading advisor to the aviation industry, providing clients with access to specialized expertise and a track record of successful outcomes.
