Heathrow Airport has announced that Lord Paul Deighton will succeed Sir Nigel Rudd as Chairman of the Board when he steps down later this year.
Heathrow say that under Sir Nigel Rudd’s leadership, “Heathrow has been transformed into one of the great airports of the world”. They say Lord Deighton will guide Heathrow through its next phase of development, supporting Heathrow’s vision of giving passengers the best airport service in the world and preparing for the Government’s decision on airport expansion.
Lord Deighton was CEO of LOCOG (London Organising Committee of the Olympic Games) for London 2012. He has also been Commercial Secretary to the Treasury, where he was responsible for the UK’s National Infrastructure Plan.
Commenting on his appointment, Lord Deighton said: “Over the past decade, Heathrow has been transformed by £11bn of private investment into a world-class airport that Britain can be proud of. It is Britain’s front door – providing a warm welcome to visitors and connecting all parts of our island trading nation to the emerging and international markets of the world that fuel growth, create jobs and drive exports.
“I’m delighted to be joining a team with an ambition to give passengers the best airport service in the world and focussed on delivering the runway that will keep Britain at the heart of the global economy.”
Heathrow CEO John Holland-Kaye said: “Lord Deighton’s experience is tailor made for Heathrow. He understands the importance of world class national infrastructure as well as delivering outstanding service. He has exactly the skills we need to develop Heathrow as the best connected and most sustainable airport in the world.
“I would like to thank and pay tribute to Sir Nigel and his great stewardship as Chairman over the last nine years, transforming Heathrow into one of the world’s great airports.”
