Willis Lease Finance Faces Shareholder Probe Over Executive Pay

BFA Law Notifies Investors to Explore Legal Options Amid Concerns About Excessive Compensation

Mar. 30, 2026 at 10:21am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A photorealistic studio still life featuring a stack of financial documents, a pen, and a calculator arranged on a clean, monochromatic background, conceptually representing the abstract corporate strategy and finance at the center of the investigation.A minimalist still life captures the complex financial matters at the heart of the investigation into Willis Lease Finance's executive compensation practices.NYC Today

Leading securities law firm Bleichmar Fonti & Auld LLP has launched an investigation into the board of directors of Willis Lease Finance Corporation (NASDAQ: WLFC) and its executive chairman, Charles F. Willis, IV, over potential breaches of fiduciary duties to shareholders related to Willis' substantial and increasing compensation packages in recent years.

Why it matters

The investigation centers on concerns that Willis Lease's board, which is effectively controlled by Willis as the company's founder and 40% shareholder, may have approved excessive or wasteful compensation for the executive chairman, potentially harming the interests of other shareholders.

The details

In fiscal years 2022, 2023, and 2025, Willis received compensation totaling approximately $6.2 million, $10.7 million, and $14.2 million respectively, with over half of the compensation in the form of stock awards. The board also granted Willis an option in November 2025 to purchase up to 300,000 shares, which has since increased significantly in value as the stock price has risen.

  • In fiscal year 2022, Willis received $6.2 million in compensation.
  • In fiscal year 2023, Willis received $10.7 million in compensation.
  • In fiscal year 2025, Willis received $14.2 million in compensation.
  • On November 10, 2025, the board granted Willis an option to purchase up to 300,000 shares.

The players

Charles F. Willis, IV

The founder of Willis Lease Finance Corporation, who owns approximately 40% of the company's stock and serves as its executive chairman.

Willis Lease Finance Corporation

A NASDAQ-listed company that provides aircraft and engine leasing services.

Bleichmar Fonti & Auld LLP

A leading international law firm representing plaintiffs in securities class actions and shareholder litigation.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

BFA Law is encouraging current Willis Lease Finance shareholders to submit their information to the firm to explore potential legal options. The firm will seek court approval for any potential fees and expenses.

The takeaway

This investigation highlights the potential conflicts of interest that can arise when a company's founder and controlling shareholder also serves as the executive chairman, and raises questions about the board's oversight and fiduciary duties to all shareholders.