Webster to exit easyJet
EasyJet chief executive Ray Webster is to leave the UK low-cost carrier, while founding chairman Stelios Haji-Ioannou, the largest single shareholder, returns as a non-executive director.
The airline says that New Zealander Webster, who was planning to retire in 2006, is leaving the carrier for personal reasons. He will resign from the board once a successor has been found, although he will continue to carry out "special tasks" for the company until the end of November.
Webster joined easyJet in 1996 when it had just two aircraft and is widely seen as the brains behind the operation, with Haji-Ioannou the charismatic front man of the publicity friendly carrier. As of May this year, the carrier had 94 aircraft, with 83 on order and options for another 120.
Webster joined easyJet after 27 years with Air New Zealand. He says: "Building and developing easyJet has been the highlight of my long career in the airline business." However, he adds: "There have been some personal costs and I believe now is the appropriate time for the company to bring forward its succession planning process. The airline is in good shape, with a strong management team and dedicated people, operating in dynamic markets."
EasyJet chairman Colin Chandler says that the search for a successor, which will include external candidates, is under way.
Meanwhile, Haji-Ioannou has rejoined the board as non-executive director, despite previously insisting that he would only do so if the company ran into trouble. He reiterated, however, that he has no plans to take the publicly listed airline private.
"I hope to make a contribution based on my close understanding of the business model, an appreciation of its markets and unique culture," he says.
COLIN BAKER LONDON
Source: Airline Business
