Former Jet2 ground handling operations director Steve Szalay is to take charge of Aberdeen airport as managing director.
A graduate of the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst, Szalay went on to hold a series of senior executive roles within the aviation sector including a spell with global ground handling company dnata before Jet2.
Both roles saw him work across a number of airports including Heathrow and Gatwick.
Szalay takes up his position at Aberdeen airport next Tuesday replacing Carol Benzie, who announced in the summer that she was going to step down.
He will work closely with Derek Provan, chief executive of the Scottish Highlands airport’s parent company AGS, amid the third and final phase of a revamp of the terminal.
Provan said: “Over the course of the past three months we conducted an extensive recruitment process to identify the right individual to take Aberdeen International airport forward.
“In Steve we have recruited someone who is not only well regarded within the industry but, crucially, has extensive experience of working with an array of airlines, ground handling companies and airports. Together with the team at Aberdeen, I’m looking forward to welcoming Steve on board.”
Szalay said: “I’m relishing the opportunity of leading a business that plays such an important role in supporting the connectivity and success of the north-east [of Scotland]. The airport is committed to delivering for the Aberdeen region and I am joining at what is clearly an exciting time for the business.
“With the terminal transformation now in its final phase, AGS has delivered an airport to truly match the ambitions of the city and I’m looking forward to working with my new colleagues, as well as with our city and national partners, to ensure we continue to deliver for our passengers.”