Heathrow Announces Executive Leadership Changes

Heathrow Airport undergoes significant executive team changes, with COO Emma Gilthorpe departing for Royal Mail, and internal promotions for Javier Echave to COO and Sally Ding to acting CFO.

April 2, 2024, LONDON - Heathrow today revealed changes to its Executive team, marking a pivotal step in the airport's ongoing strategy towards becoming an exceptional future-ready airport. After a 15-year tenure, Chief Operating Officer (COO) Emma Gilthorpe is set to leave Heathrow to become the CEO of Royal Mail starting May 1, with her final day at Heathrow being April 26. Succeeding her will be Javier Echave, Heathrow's current Chief Financial Officer (CFO), stepping into the COO role from April 26. In the interim, Sally Ding, the present Director of Treasury & Corporate Finance, will assume the position of acting CFO while the search for a permanent CFO is conducted.

Emma Gilthorpe's departure comes after a distinguished period of service, where she led multiple executive-level teams, driving significant progress even through challenging conditions. Her leadership contributed notably to Heathrow's strategic direction, expansion plans, and operational success. Gilthorpe's legacy includes a rejuvenated operation that has returned to peak performance after recent global disruptions.

Javier Echave brings to his new role as COO a wealth of experience within Heathrow, having joined the company 16 years ago and serving as CFO since 2016. Echave has been instrumental in developing Heathrow’s business plan, ensuring financial stability, and championing sustainability initiatives and safety protocols.

Sally Ding, who joined Heathrow in 2006, has been pivotal in establishing global financial partnerships and spearheading innovative financing solutions, including the launch of Heathrow’s first Sustainability Linked Bond. Her expertise will guide Heathrow's financial strategies during this transitional period.

Thomas Woldbye, CEO of Heathrow, expressed his gratitude towards Gilthorpe for her significant contributions and welcomed the new changes, stating, “Emma Gilthorpe's impact on Heathrow is profound, and while we are sad to see her go, we are excited for what the future holds under the leadership of Javier and Sally. These changes open a new chapter for Heathrow as we continue to strive towards being an extraordinary airport, fit for the future.”

Heathrow's leadership transition reflects the airport's commitment to maintaining operational excellence and fostering a culture of innovation and sustainability as it embarks on the next phase of its journey.

For more information on the leadership changes at Heathrow and the airport’s strategic direction, visit Heathrow’s official website.