Guardian chief takes helm at EasyJet

 

Guardian Media Group chief executive Carolyn McCall is to become one of the most senior female executives in the airline industry.

 

She has been confirmed as chief executive of the budget carrier EasyJet and will join at a date to be confirmed.

 

McCall will take over from Andy Harrison who is leaving to head Whitbread.

 

The airline said she has a proven track record of successful operational delivery in a fast changing online consumer facing business combined with extensive plc board and government and lobbying experience.

 

EasyJet chairman Sir Michael Rake said: "Following a thorough process involving a number of high calibre candidates we have unanimously chosen a strong chief executive with the strategic ability, operational capability and passion to drive easyJet through the next stage of its development."

 

McCall added: "My priority will be to build on EasyJet’s strengths: a strong consumer proposition, leadership positions in many of Europe's key airports, and an operating model built around simplicity and low cost.

"As a customer of EasyJet I know that they have outstanding people who deliver a fantastic customer experience, and I'm looking forward to working with the whole team to take the business forward."

 

by Phil Davies