A new CEO has been appointed to realise ambitions for a sustainable long-term future at LBA.
As Leeds Bradford Airport battles to gain approval for its new terminal and additional developments (see our profile on the airport in CONNECT Unplugged, July 2020, p10), its operator has moved to institute a management change at the very top. Vincent Hodder became chief executive officer (CEO) at the Yorkshire airport on 1st February 2021 and will lead the company through the next phase in its history.
Hodder is no stranger to Leeds Bradford Airport, although he previously experienced its operations from the other side of the airport–airline partnership during his days at Flybe, where he served as chief strategy officer and chief revenue officer. Immediately prior to moving to LBA, Hodder was the first CEO at LEVEL, the brand under which airlines owned by the International Airlines Group (IAG) operate low-cost flights.
Other airlines to have benefited from Hodder’s experience include Jetstar Airways in Australia and Mexico’s VivaAerobus. He also worked as a consultant and advisor at consulting firm Bain & Company.
At present, LBA is facing considerable opposition to its plans. As CEO, Hodder will be leading the task of overcoming those, while demonstrating how the airport can be a good neighbour to its locality.