Gatwick boss elevated to group role after 15 years

Gatwick chief executive Stewart Wingate is taking a newly-created role at owner Vinci Airports and Global Infrastructure Partners (GIP).

 

Pierre-Hugues Schmit, Vinci Airports chief commercial and operational officer for seven years, will take the helm at the London airport.

 

Wingate, who has led Gatwick for 15 years, will oversee the future development and strategic direction of the airport alongside Edinburgh airport and Belfast International.

 

The chief executives of the three airports will report into him, with the changes taking place from September 1.

 

Nicolas Notebaert, chief executive of Vinci Concessions and president of Vinci Airports and Michael McGhee, deputy chairman of GIP said in a joint statement: “Stewart is one of the most experienced aviation executives in Europe and on behalf of the board we would like to thank him for his outstanding contribution to London Gatwick. 

 

“During his tenure, passenger numbers have climbed from 30 million in 2009 to more than 43 million, fuelled by significant growth in long-haul routes and strong airline relationships. 

 

“He has also overseen major transformations in areas including runway and airfield operations and security and embedded sustainability at the heart of airport operations. 

 

“His broad expertise and strong track record make him an ideal choice for the newly created role of managing director for the UK as we look to maximise the opportunities across our UK portfolio.” 

 

Wingate added: “It’s been a privilege to lead the London Gatwick team for over 15 years through a number of very exciting projects such as the seven-year planning process to bring our northern runway into routine use and more challenging periods such as the Covid pandemic. 

 

“I have also been fortunate to have had the opportunity to engage with a broad range of local stakeholders as we have shaped and delivered our plans. 

 

"The airport is in a strong financial and operational position with more airlines than ever before serving our passengers. 

 

“I am delighted to be handing over to Pierre-Hugues and look forward to continuing to be involved with London Gatwick and working with the teams from Edinburgh and Belfast in my new role.”

 

Schmit said: “London Gatwick plays a vital role in the UK, by providing seamless access to both global and domestic markets and delivering substantial trade and economic benefits in the southeast and beyond. I’m excited to be joining London Gatwick as chief executive to lead the airport through the next stage of its growth journey.”