Strodel to lead Etihad
Etihad Airways has promoted Robert Strodel, 49 (pictured), to become its first chief executive with immediate effect. The Abu Dhabi-based carrier, which began operating in November 2003, has been led by Dr Sheikh Ahmed Bin Saif Al Nahyan, Etihad’s chairman and director general of the Civil Aviation Department of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi.
“Robert Strodel has contributed substantially to the considerable success Etihad has enjoyed,” says Dr Al Nahyan. “Our long-term plans make the appointment of a chief executive a natural development. Robert in his former role as head of cargo and mail has proven his ability to lead and his broad international experience make him the candidate of choice.”
Strodel’s management team consists of German Werner Borchert, an ex-LTU executive who is vice-president operations, and Salim Al Salmi, who is vice-president commercial.
Strodel is a Lufthansa veteran, who joined the carrier in 1968. In 1996 he founded Lufthansa Cargo India and led the company as managing director. He left in 2001 to found an aviation consultancy before joining Etihad.
Mark Pilling London
Source: Airline Business
