SAS boss to take charge of Air Canada

The boss of Scandinavian carrier SAS is to take the helm of Air Canada.

 

Anko Van der Werff will succeed Michael Rousseau to become president and chief executive of the Canadian flag carrier by the end of January 2027.

 

Rousseau previously announced his retirement after 19 years with Air Canada.

 

The selection of current SAS chief executive Van der Werff follows a “comprehensive global search” for the best person to lead Air Canada into the future.

 

Performance criteria included the ability to communicate in French.

 

SAS has undergone a "significant" transformation, completed a comprehensive restructuring and strengthened both its financial and operational position under his leadership since 2021.

 

SAS will continue operating according to its established plan, with full focus on ongoing delivery and strategic progress, according to the airline. The SAS board will now initiate the process of appointing a successor to Van Der Werff.

Rousseau’s retirement is effective on August 31, although he will continue to be available as needed throughout the transition, according to the airline.

 

Air Canada chair Vagn Sørensen said: "Our board of directors was impressed by the quality of experienced executives from around the world who expressed interest in the role.

 

“We are delighted to have attracted and recruited an executive of Mr Van der Werff’s stature to lead Air Canada.

 

“He has an exceptional breadth of international aviation experience and a proven 25-year track record, including his most recent forward-looking executive leadership at Scandinavian Airlines, Avianca Group, and Aeromexico and earlier at KLM and Qatar Airways.

 

“We are confident he will drive further value-creating growth and transformation while maintaining our commitment to disciplined capital allocation.”

 

Sørensen added: “The board is grateful to Michael Rousseau for his outstanding leadership and extraordinary contributions, which are in large part responsible for the enviable position Air Canada enjoys among global carriers. We thank him for that legacy and for his support with the transition.”

 

Van der Werff said: "Air Canada is a globally recognised airline leader. It is an honour to be chosen to lead this iconic Canadian company as it advances its ambitions and strategy, builds on its award-winning employee culture and customer value proposition, and prepares for an even brighter future.

 

“I look forward to working closely with Air Canada’s talented executive team and with all employees to fulfil our commitments to shareholders and customers. I am excited about relocating to Montreal and eager to get started.”

 

On leaving SAS, he said: “This has not been an easy decision. I have greatly valued my time at SAS and the opportunity to work alongside so many dedicated colleagues. 

 

“Over the past years, we have navigated a highly demanding period together and made substantial progress in strengthening the company. Many of the key building blocks are now in place, and SAS is well positioned for the next phase of its development.”