Guy Stephenson has joined Gatwick as commercial director, moving from a similar role for the coach business of National Express. He will lead the airport’s airline route development activities and car parking business.
Stephenson was previously director of the air transport group at the investment bank BZW and commercial director of Thomson Airways for-runner Thomsonfly.
He said: “My focus is on developing long-term relationships with new and existing airlines to provide more destinations for passengers to choose from.
“I will also be looking to introduce real competition in the car parking business to ensure Gatwick’s parking facilities are first choice for passengers.”
Gatwick chief executiveStewart Wingate said: “He joins at a very busy and exciting time as we approach the end of our first year as a stand alone airport.
“We have around £350 million of projects currently underway to help transform Gatwick and improve passenger experience.
“We also have an ambitious target to grow to more than 40 million passengers over the next decade and become London’s airport of choice.
“Guy’s extensive commercial experience in the airport and travel industry will be critical to helping us achieve that ambition.”