The WestJet Group announced this morning that Harry Taylor has officially assumed the role of interim President and CEO.
The company announced on September 15 that Taylor would take on the temporary role following the news of Ed Sims' retirement announced on June 9.
"I am honoured to take on the interim role of CEO at this pivotal time for the WestJet Group, and am focused on our relentless commitment to safety above all while ensuring continuity for our recovery, as we rebuild our airlines for our guests and our people," said Taylor.
"By the end of the year, we will return our entire fleet to service for the peak holiday travel season, connecting loved ones and fulfilling long awaited vacations plans. I look forward to leading our organization through this crucial phase of our recovery, while we continue our search for a permanent CEO."
Taylor joined WestJet in 2015 as Executive Vice-President and Chief Financial Officer (CFO). Over the following years, he led the airline's inaugural U.S. bond issue, negotiated the purchase of Boeing 787 Dreamliner and Boeing MAX aircraft, and was instrumental in the sale of WestJet to Onex. Through the pandemic, Harry led the Finance team in managing WestJet's liquidity to ensure sustainability with little to no revenue coming in.
"I am extremely pleased Harry has agreed to take on this interim role," said the WestJet Group Board Chair Chris Burley. "Our global search for a permanent CEO continues, and on behalf of WestJet and the board, we are grateful Harry has stepped up to help us through this critical transition."
Topics From This Article to Explore
