News / Steve Gunning to leave IAG Cargo to become CFO of BA

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IAG Cargo CEO Steve Gunning is to become chief financial officer at British Airways next year.

He will replace Nick Swift who is leaving the airline “to pursue other opportunities”, said IAG today.

The airline group, comprising BA, Iberia, Vueling and Aer Lingus, also announced that Vueling chairman and CEO Alex Cruz is to replace Keith Williams as chairman and chief executive of British Airways in April when Mr Williams retires after 18 years at the airline.

Willie Walsh, IAG chief executive, said: “Steve Gunning 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.”

Steve Gunning

Announcements about his replacement at IAG Cargo and the new CEO of Vueling will be made in due course, said IAG.

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.

Mr Cruz said: “I look forward to working next year at one of the world’s largest and most iconic airlines. The challenge at British Airways is to continue providing excellent customer service while ensuring that we meet the financial targets that IAG sets for us.”