In aviation finance, few leaders offer the same depth of technical knowledge and executive experience as Deepak Sharma—Aircraft Finance Lease founder and CEO. Based in London, AFL is known for providing custom financing solutions for the global aviation and aerospace industries. Since its launch in 2019, the company has become a trusted partner for aircraft and engine lessors worldwide.

Sharma brings over 20 years of experience in aviation, including more than a decade in senior leadership roles. He began his career in technical positions at British Aerospace and Brymon Airways Engineering, where he gained a firsthand understanding of aircraft systems, maintenance, and operations. 

Throughout his career, he’s held a range of leadership positions across the industry, consistently driving progress and delivering results. As Engineering Director at UK International Airlines, he helped launch the airline’s operations and built its engineering department from the ground up, earning a certificate of recognition for his contributions. He later served as Chief Technical Officer at AJW Group, where he led large-scale technical projects and helped the company grow.

Before founding AFL, he was President of Integrated Solutions at a global aviation services firm. There, he expanded the organization’s offerings and introduced new, forward-looking strategies designed to meet the changing needs of the industry. After decades working in and around aircraft, he understands what airlines and lessors actually need—not just in theory, but in practice—and that insight continues to guide AFL’s operations today.

Sharma holds a degree in aircraft engineering, multiple EASA certifications, and advanced qualifications in aviation law, contract law, and business. He’s also a Fellow of the Royal Aeronautical Society, one of the highest professional honors in the field.

For Deepak Sharma, AFL is the result of decades of experience, leadership, and a clear understanding of what aviation companies need to succeed. 

We recently spoke with Sharma to learn more about his leadership style and how thoughtful decision-making plays a central role in AFL’s growth in a rapidly changing market. 

What is one key strategy you've implemented at AFL that has contributed to business growth or your career advancement within the financial industry?

A fundamental strategy that I have adopted at AFL entails the development of innovative, customised aviation finance solutions specifically tailored to meet the unique needs of our clients. Through a sincere understanding of their evolving requirements, we have cultivated trusted relationships, thereby ensuring sustained business growth and solidifying AFL's position as a respected leader in the field of aviation finance.

In a fast-paced financial environment, what do you consider essential to making effective and timely decisions?

In the rapidly evolving field of aviation finance, the leadership quality of decisiveness is imperative. Drawing upon my experience in engineering and operations, I prioritize the assessment of risks and opportunities from multiple perspectives prior to reaching a conclusion. When I ultimately arrive at a decision, it is made with careful consideration and thoughtfulness balanced.

How do you foster and sustain strong professional relationships—with both your internal team and external lending partners or clients?

I firmly believe in the importance of creating and maintaining professional relationships that promote trust, openness, and mutual respect. In my 30+ years in aviation, I have cultivated a culture of transparency and respect—both within my team and in our interactions with external partners—that ensures our professional relationships endure over time.

What ongoing training or industry certifications are you pursuing to stay ahead of changes in the financial and lending space?

I do not wish to remain stagnant in my knowledge. I seek to leverage the momentum of the industry to propel my understanding in currently relevant fields as well as in areas I anticipate will gain significance in the near future—namely, aviation finance, asset management, and regulatory compliance. I aim to comprehend the forces that are driving change within the industry and utilize continuous training and certifications to ensure I remain well ahead of emerging trends.

What goal-setting frameworks or performance-tracking systems do you use to ensure personal and team success at AFL?   

At AFL, I employ goal-setting that is not just structured and clear but also easily measurable. Together with performance reviews that are supportive and regular, this ensures that not just one individual but each individual, plus us collectively, holds the kind of accountability that guarantees the kind of success that is both consistent and also, in many respects, no-nonsense measurable.

When faced with challenging clients or high-pressure situations, how do you de-escalate and create a positive resolution?

When it comes to this, my go-to method is a trifecta of empathy, active listening, and collaborative problem-solving. I approach high-stakes interactions with an understanding that everyone involved is probably feeling the heat, and I urge myself to move with and through the problem rather than around it.

What leadership traits do you believe are non-negotiable in financial services, and how do you reflect those in your role at AFL?

Integrity, accountability, and innovation are what this board requires of its financial leaders. I work hard every day to embody those values and ensure that the AFL operates not only with the highest ethical standards but also in a manner that is both creative and professional. That is our touchstone. Anything else, we consider a failure. And when we say that trust and respect are the sine qua non ("without which, not") of our stakeholders, we mean it.

Can you share a specific moment when you helped a colleague at AFL overcome a major professional hurdle or challenge?

I really value mentorship. I find it incredibly rewarding to help colleagues [and] co-workers when they are overcome with professional hurdles—it's almost like being a therapist. One cute little story I'm going to share is: When I first came to Virginia Tech, I was in a workgroup of all men. One of the young men in that group was very talented but also very introverted. When he was assigned to give a seminar, I worked with him so that he could feel good about being more of an extrovert. In helping him live up to his potential, I was definitely allowing my potential to shine as a mentor.

With so many moving parts in finance and lending, how do you determine what tasks require your direct involvement and which can be delegated?

Understanding when to dive into something and when to hand it off to someone else is a pretty key skill. I spend a lot of time being involved in the things that are going to pay off in big, strategic ways for our growth. But I also try to balance that with thoughtful delegation. I want my team members to have opportunities to step up, own things, and make the kinds of decisions that help them grow.

What’s your go-to strategy for motivating your team to hit ambitious goals and maintain high standards at AFL?

Motivating my team requires the creation of an ambitious, supportive atmosphere where every member of the team feels included and proud of the work he or she does. I celebrate individual and team successes both large and small. I encourage my team to be innovative, take risks, and think big. I cover my office with the trophies and plaques that my team has earned.

What Lies Ahead

Thanks to Deepak Sharma, AFL continues to grow, even as the aviation industry evolves. His leadership has helped the company stay true to its core values while adapting to shifting demands. As the need for sustainable and customized financing grows, AFL is well-positioned to meet those needs with a model built on flexibility and trust. 

Rather than following trends, Sharma prioritizes long-term impact—creating financial strategies that support operational goals, reduce risk, and reflect the realities of day-to-day aviation. It’s a practical, people-centered approach that defines both his leadership and the company’s direction.

Looking ahead, AFL plans to keep improving its services and building strong partnerships throughout the world. With Sharma leading the way, the company remains focused on helping its clients succeed—not just through numbers, but through lasting results. 

We would like to thank Deepak Sharma for sharing his time, knowledge, and perspective with our readers.