Aer Lingus chief executive Stephen Kavanagh to step down at the end of 2018
posted on 11th October 2018 by Justin Burns
Aer Lingus chief executive Stephen Kavanagh will step down on 1 January, 2019 to pursue other interests – but will remain on the airline's board as a non-executive director.
He will be succeeded as chief executive and executive director by Sean Doyle, who is currently British Airways director of network, fleet and alliances and will take up his new role on 1 January, 2019.
IAG chief executive and Aer Lingus chairman, Willie Walsh said: "Stephen has been an exceptional chief executive and has transformed and modernised Aer Lingus. After a 30-year career, he has decided to step down.
"We wish him all the very best for the future and heartfelt thanks for all his outstanding achievements. We're delighted that Stephen will remain on Aer Lingus' board and provide advice and guidance to the airline".
Kavanagh said: "After a 30-year career in Aer Lingus with the last four years as chief executive, I've taken the decision to step down to pursue other interests. By any objective measure Aer Lingus has been successful in recent years and continues to have significant opportunity to build upon the strong fundamentals of our value model.
"I'd like to thank all those who have provided support and guidance during my time in Aer Lingus. I look forward to working with Sean as he transitions into his new role and wish him and all my colleagues continued success.''
Doyle joined British Airways in 2003 and has undertaken financial, strategy, commercial and alliance roles for the airline culminating in his appointment to the airline's executive management committee in 2016.
Walsh said: "Sean has successfully held a variety of roles within British Airways, acquiring significant expertise and experience, which makes him ideally suited to lead Aer Lingus. I am pleased that Aer Lingus chief operating officer, Mike Rutter, has extended his contract and will work with Sean to ensure that the airline continues to deliver its strong performance."
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