Connect Airways has announced the appointment of a new CEO.
The company, which is jointly owned by Virgin Atlantic, Stobart Group with funds managed by Cyrus Capital Partners, has announced the appointment of Mark Anderson as CEO.
Connect Airways is an independent airline operating under one management team and owned 40% by Cyrus, 30% by the Stobart Group and 30% by Virgin Atlantic.
Since February 2017, Anderson has successfully led the strategy, creation and delivery of the world famous Virgin Atlantic customer experience.
Anderson joins Connect Airways from his current role as executive vice president - customer, Virgin Atlantic.
Previously he was senior vice president and managing director of Virgin Holidays and has over 25 years of senior management experience in retailing and travel.
Elsewhere, Connect Airways will acquire management control over Flybe Limited, once merger clearance has been received from the European Commission under the EU Merger Regulation.
Once merger clearance is received, Connect Airways will offer significant benefits for customers these include more choice by linking airports around the UK to Virgin Atlantic’s long-haul network.
Commenting on his new role, Anderson said: “It’s a real privilege and honour for me to take on the leadership of Connect Airways, at this exciting time. We are focused on growing the airline while expanding our franchise business in Dublin, redefining what customers can expect from regional flying in the UK.
"We have all the building blocks in place: Flybe’s heritage and expertise in running Europe’s largest regional airline; the operational excellence and strength of Stobart Air; and in the near future, the magic of the Virgin brand. I can’t wait to get started with the team.”