Pierre-Hugues Schmit will take the reins as London Gatwick's new CEO from 1 September
London Gatwick Airport has appointed Pierre-Hugues Schmit as its new CEO after current chief executive Stewart Wingate is set to become managing director of UK airports, a newly-created role by airport operator VINCI and investment group Global Infrastructure Partners (GIP). Both appointments will be effective from 1 September.
Schmit, currently chief commercial and operational officer at VINCI Airports and a non-executive director on the London Gatwick board, will take the reins as the airport continues plans to bring its Northern Runway into routine use, and will work together with Wingate over the next few months ¡°to ensure a smooth transition¡±.
Stewart Wingate steps into the newly-created role of MD, UK airports at VINCI and GIP
Meanwhile, after a 15-year tenure as Gatwick CEO, Wingate will now oversee the future development and strategic direction of London Gatwick, Edinburgh Airport and Belfast International in his new role. The CEOs of all three airports will report into Wingate, while he will continue to report into both VINCI and GIP.
In a joint statement, VINCI Airports president Nicolas Notebaert and GIP deputy chairman Michael McGhee, said:?¡°Stewart is one of the most experienced aviation executives in Europe... His broad expertise and strong track record make him an ideal choice for the newly created role of managing director for the UK as we look to maximise the opportunities across our UK portfolio.¡±
As part of the announcement, Stewart Wingate, said:?¡°It¡¯s been a privilege to lead the London Gatwick team for over 15 years through a number of very exciting projects¡ The airport is in a strong financial and operational position with more airlines than ever before serving our passengers."
Schmit added that he is ¡°excited¡± to lead the airport through the "next stage of its growth journey".