Bridger Aerospace Group Holdings, a leading independent provider of aerial firefighting services, has appointed Eric Gerratt as Chief Financial Officer.

The announcement comes ahead of Bridger’s planned merger with Jack Creek Investment Corp – a special purpose acquisition company – and subsequent listing on NASDAQ.

Tim Sheehy, the Company’s Chief Executive Officer, commented: “Bringing on a CFO with public company experience was important as Bridger makes this transition.

“Eric brings extensive financial reporting and management experience to our company, as well as acquisition and integration expertise, having helped grow his former company to nearly $1.0 billion in revenue.

“We look forward to him being a valued addition to the Bridger team as we expand throughout North America and globally to meet the rising demand for critical aerial firefighting services.”

Eric Gerratt joins Bridger from US Ecology, a leader in environmental services, where he was Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer. He spent 15 years with US Ecology until its recent acquisition by Republic Services, during which time US Ecology’s revenue grew from $166 million to nearly $1.0 billion.

Prior to joining US Ecology, Gerratt served as Vice President of Accounting for SuperValu, Inc., held various director level accounting and finance positions at Albertsons, Inc. and spent six years with PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP. Gerratt is a Certified Public Accountant and holds a B.S. in Accounting from the University of Idaho.

Commenting on his new position, he said: “I am excited to join Bridger, a company that has a strong track record of financial performance and significant opportunities for growth as it prepares to go public. As climate conditions evolve and wildfires grow in number and severity, the Company’s fully integrated aerial firefighting solution is critical to save property and minimize economic and environmental damage.

“With Bridger’s unique positioning, the potential for value creation is tremendous, and I look forward to working with its experienced management team to expand these critical services.”