Airport boss to step down
Leeds Bradford Airport (LBA) has announced that David Laws is set to retire from his post as chief executive of the airport.
Laws, known as Davie Laws, was appointed chief executive of Leeds Bradford Airport in May 2017 and his last day will be 18 April. Laws had previously held the CEO role at Newcastle airport and took over the LBA role from John Parkin.
During his time as CEO, the airport was sold by Bridgepoint to AMP Capital in a multi-million pound deal. LBA said that Laws presided over a record period of growth for the airport, including two consecutive years of record passenger numbers and growth in EBITDA.
Paul French, CFO, and Simon Whitby, Operations Director, will take over joint leadership responsibilities while LBA searches for a new chief executive.
Laws said: “The last two years as Chief Executive have been an incredible experience as LBA has continued its transformation into an airport the people of Yorkshire can be truly proud of. It’s been wonderful to see the airport take shape with improved infrastructure and a transformation of the terminal.
“Working with Leeds City Council to get approval for the terminal building extension has undoubtedly been a highlight, and I look forward to seeing the airport’s continued evolution when the terminal building work commences shortly.
“Positioning the airport for long term growth and ensuring Yorkshire has an airport that reflects the growth of the region has been a key focus for me in this role over the last two years. I feel this is the right point in time for me to move on. While I’ve enjoyed every minute of my time at LBA, I’ve missed being away from my family.
“I’d like to thank the LBA staff, local authorities, business community and everyone in the Yorkshire community more broadly for their support and tireless commitment to ensuring LBA continues to be a key contributor to the economic development of the region.”
Laws will continue to work with the airport’s owner AMP Capital on strategic initiatives as a senior advisor.
David Rees, global head of asset management, AMP Capital, said: “Davie has led Leeds Bradford Airport since May 2017 and in that time has been key to the growth of the airport, including route development and overseeing the completion of the first-phase of a multi-million pound redevelopment, which includes a significant upgrading of its commercial offering.”
“Davie’s experience and enthusiasm have seen him make a significant contribution to positioning the airport for long term growth, and we thank him for his leadership over the last two years. His passion for airports is second to none, and AMP Capital is delighted David will continue to share his expertise as part of our group of Senior Advisors.”
Andy Clarke, LBA Chairman, added: “On behalf of the Board, I’d like to sincerely thank Davie for his significant contribution to the success of the airport over the last two years. Davie has laid excellent foundations for the airport to continue to grow and be such a position contributor to our local economy.”
