London Gatwick CEO Stewart Wingate is moving on from the role after 15 years in the position, the airport said on May 30, 2025.
He will now move to an overseeing position in the newly created role of managing director.
In this role created by VINCI Airports and Global Infrastructure Partners (GIP) — the 50/50 stake owners of the airport — Wingate will oversee the future development and strategic direction of London Gatwick, Edinburgh Airport and Belfast International, with the chief executives of these three airports reporting to him. He will report to both VINCI and GIP in relation to London Gatwick and Edinburgh Airport.
“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," commented Wingate. "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.”
Wingate will be succeeded by VINCI Airport chief commercial officer and operational officer Pierre-Hugues Schmit.
“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,” continued Wingate.
Schmit commented: “I’m excited to be joining London Gatwick as Chief Executive to lead the airport through the next stage of its growth journey.”
Both appointments will be effective September 1, 2025. Both will work together to ensure a smooth transition.