News Content

Alex Cruz to become new British Airways chief executive

ALEX Cruz is to become the new chairman and chief executive of British Airways, starting from April 2016. He will replace Keith Williams, who will retire after 18 years at the airline.

Mr Cruz is currently the chairman and chief executive of Vueling. In his new role, he will continue to report to chief executive Willie Walsh of International Airlines Group (IAG).

In addition, the current chief executive of IAG Cargo, Steve Gunning, will become chief financial officer at British Airways, replacing Nick Swift who is leaving the airline to pursue other opportunities, IAG announced in a press release.

Commenting on the new appointments, Mr Walsh said: "I would like to thank Keith Williams for all that he has achieved at British Airways. It has been a great personal privilege to work with Keith for the last 10 years. Keith is not only British Airways' executive chairman, he was fundamental to the creation of IAG. IAG is as much his legacy as is his leadership of BA."

"Under Alex Cruz's leadership, Vueling has become a dynamic, innovative and cost-effective airline and Alex will bring new experience and insight to British Airways.

"Steve Gunning will return to British Airways to support Alex as chief financial officer. He has been highly effective in setting up IAG's first ever single business unit at IAG Cargo. The business is industry-leading with a ground breaking operating model and cost focus."

Announcements about the new chairman and chief executive of Vueling and new chief executive of IAG Cargo will be made in due course.