$WLFC Investor News: Willis Lease Finance Faces Investigation after Executive Compensation – BFA Law Notifies Shareholders to Act

Core Viewpoint - Bleichmar Fonti & Auld LLP is investigating Willis Lease Finance Corporation's board of directors and executive chairman Charles F. Willis, IV for potential breaches of fiduciary duties related to excessive compensation practices [1][5]. Group 1: Investigation Details - The investigation focuses on whether the compensation awarded to Charles F. Willis, IV is excessive or wasteful, and if the board has breached its fiduciary duties to shareholders [5]. - Charles F. Willis, IV controls approximately 40% of Willis Lease's stock and has been a significant figure in the company since its founding in 1985 [2]. Group 2: Compensation Overview - In fiscal year 2022, Mr. Willis received approximately $6.2 million, which increased to about $10.7 million in fiscal year 2023, and further to approximately $14.2 million in fiscal year 2025 [3]. - Over half of Mr. Willis' total compensation during these years has been in the form of stock awards [3]. Group 3: Stock Options and Performance - On November 10, 2025, the compensation committee awarded Mr. Willis an option grant to purchase up to 300,000 shares of common stock, intended to retain and incentivize him, with a four-year vesting period [4]. - Following the option grant, Willis Lease's stock price has risen significantly, enhancing the value of the options for Mr. Willis [4].