Former Tesco UK and John Lewis man Robin Terrell has been appointed as chairman of airline and holidays firm Jet2.
The chartered accountant has been a non-executive director at the Leeds Bradford Airport-based carrier for the past three years. Amid a unanimous decision for the Jet2 board, Mr Terrell is credited with having helped the company navigate the “most tumultuous period” in its history following his appointment just as Covid emerged.
The appointment means Jet2 founder and chair Philip Meeson has immediately stepped down as chair, and taken up an advisory position. It follows an announcement in July that he would be leaving his post.
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Mr Terrell will work with Jet2 CEO Steve Heapy and chief financial officer Gary Brown on what the company called its “laser sharp focus” on customer experience.
Mr Meeson said: “I am delighted that Robin has agreed to become our non-executive chairman. Robin’s background across consumer and online industries has already proven to be of significant benefit to the company and I am absolutely certain he will be a fantastic chair, providing great support to Steve and Gary. Although I am stepping back from the board, I’m proud to remain a significant shareholder and will remain a strong supporter of the business. I am confident that, thanks to our outstanding team across the business, the company will go on to enjoy even greater success in the future.”
Investors were told that Mr Terrell will remain chair of the company’s Audit & Risk Committee until another independent non-executive director with the correct experience is recruited. Meanwhile Simon Breakwell has become chair of the Remuneration Committee.
Mr Terrell said: “It is an immense privilege to be asked to chair a company of the calibre of Jet2 plc and I am very much looking forward to this new challenge. Over my three years with the company, I have seen first-hand the unmatched customer focus, attention to detail and level of engagement from colleagues around the business and it has been a pleasure to be a member of the board.
“Philip can be rightly proud of the fantastic, financially robust business he has developed with the team over the last four decades, leading Jet2.com to become the UK’s third largest airline with a fleet of up to 146 of the latest fuel-efficient Airbus A321/A320neo aircraft on order and growing Jet2holidays to become the UK’s largest tour operator. I am delighted that we will be able to draw on Philip’s wisdom and experience when required and I look forward to his continuing support.”
Original artice – https://business-live.co.uk/all-about/yorkshire-humber
