The former boss of Royal Bank of Scotland is to become chairman of easyJet.
Stephen Hester, also chief executive of RSA Insurance until May, will succeed John Barton as the budget carrier’s chairman on December 1.
Hester has also been chief executive of British Land and chief operating officer of Abbey National, as well as holding a number of senior executive roles at Credit Suisse First Boston in London and New York.
He is a senior independent director of energy firm Centrica having previously held a senior non-executive position as deputy chairman of Northern Rock.
EasyJet chief executive Johan Lundgren said: “I am very much looking forward to working with Stephen at this important time in our history as we continue to build on our many strengths and take advantage of the many opportunities that lie ahead following the pandemic.
“Over the past nearly nine years, the airline has benefitted greatly from John’s wise leadership and so my thanks also go to him for his outstanding contribution during his time with us.”
Hester said: “As a long-standing admirer of easyJet, and from my own experience as a customer, I am very excited to be joining the airline and look forward to playing my part in driving its continued success.
“I see so many opportunities for this iconic brand in the coming years, all underpinned by its proven business model, unrivalled network and loyal customer base.
“I am convinced we can be winners in the European airline industry of the future, serving customers well and driving attractive shareholder value.”
Senior independent director Julie Southern added: “Throughout our comprehensive search Stephen consistently emerged as the stand out candidate, chosen by the board due to his exceptional experience, valuable commercial expertise, insightful and strategic leadership along with his ability to tackle complex challenges.”