Tata Sons announced the appointment of Campbell Wilson as CEO and MD of Air India. The Mumbai-based conglomerate completed its acquisition of the state-owned national carrier in January. Since then, the position has been vacant, and the company has been searching for a person to lead the airlines.
The decision comes after the appointment of Turkish Airlines CEO Ilker Ayci as Air India’s CEO created a stir over his political linkages. Wilson was hired as the CEO & MD for Air India in the second attempt as the previous CEO-designate, former Turkish Airlines Chairman Ilker Ayci, declined to take over the position.
“I am delighted to welcome Campell to Air India. He is an industry veteran, having worked in key global markets cutting across multiple functions. Further, Air India would benefit from his added experience of having built an airline brand in Asia. I look forward to working with him in building a world-class airline,” said N. Chandrasekaran, Chairman of Air India.
Wilson, 5o, is currently the CEO of Scoot, the wholly-owned low-cost subsidiary of Singapore Airlines (SIA), and has more than 26 years of experience in the aviation industry across full services and budget carriers. He has worked as the Senior Vice-president, Sales & Marking of SIA, where he was responsible for Pricing, Distribution, eCommerce, Merchandising, Brand & Marketing, and Global Sales. Plus, he oversaw the Airlines’s overseas offices before returning for a second stint as the CEO of Scoot in April 2020.
In regard to the selection, Wilson stated that – “I am honoured to be selected to lead the iconic Air India and be a part of the highly respected Tata Group. Air India is at the cusp of an exciting journey to become one of the best airlines in the world, offering world-class products and services with a distinct customer experience that reflects Indian warmth and hospitality. I am excited to join Air India and Tata colleagues in the mission of realising that ambition.”
His last day at Scoot will be June 15, and he will subsequently join Air India as CEO. However, he did not disclose the date of joining Air India yet.