A raft of senior management changes have been unveiled by Flybe including the appointment of a former RAF fighter pilot as a non-executive director.
Sir Timothy (Timo) Anderson joins the board of the regional carrier on May 1 and will chair its safety and security review committee.
As an Air Marshal, he established the Military Aviation Authority, the body responsible for military aviation safety, and was awarded a DSO for RAF Tornado operations during the Kosovo conflict.
He replaces Alan Smith who is to stand down as a non-executive in August after almost nine years.
Maunu Visuri becomes managing director of Flybe Finland, the joint venture between Flybe and Finnair, moving from Finnish cargo carrier Nordic Global Airlines.
Jochen Schnadt, who has previously delivered a number of white label projects for Virgin and British Airways, has taken up the role of interim director of white label business development, initially for six months.
He will lead the development of white label opportunities, described as a key part of Flybe’s growth strategy as it seeks to expand services to national flag carriers across Europe.
Annelie Carver is appointed as general counsel and company secretary, following Chris Simpson’s decision to leave the group after eight years. She is a partner in the corporate and commercial team at Michelmores Solicitors, and has more than 12 years’ experience advising listed and unlisted clients on company, commercial and contractual matters.
Former EasyJet head of UK corporate and public affairs Andrew McConnell has joined as director of communications and public affairs, replacing Niall Duffy who is leaving after seven years.
The appointments come as the airline continues to build on its turnaround and growth plan, following the raising of £150 million from a recent capital raise.
Flybe chief executive Saad Hammad said: “We are delighted to welcome Timo on board. His track record in aviation speaks for itself and we look forward to benefitting from his expertise and his counsel.
“In addition, the strengthening of our senior operational management team will accelerate the implementation of our growth strategy.
“I’d like to thank Alan, Chris and Niall for their hard work and commitment over the years. Everyone at Flybe wishes them the very best for the future.
“Today’s announcement is another important step in our journey to becoming Europe’s best local airline.”