IATA has appointed Saadia Zahidi as Director General from November 1. Zahidi will be IATA’s ninth Director General and the first woman appointed to the position.
Willie Walsh, IATA’s current Director General, will conclude his duties on July 31 with Sandrine Le Borgne, IATA’s Chief Financial Officer and Senior Vice President for Corporate Services serving as Interim Director General for the interim period.
“Saadia’s appointment comes at a moment of significant change in the international environment. Technology and geopolitics, among others, will reshape the industry in the future and Saadia brings the right skills to effectively articulate what our industry needs to continue connecting people and economies safely, efficiently, and sustainably,” said Roberto Alvo, Chair of the IATA Board of Directors and CEO of LATAM Airlines Group.
Zahidi joins IATA from the World Economic Forum (WEF) where she spent more than two decades, serving as Managing Director and Member of the Managing Board. Previously, she has led the WEF’s Global Communications Group, Global Programming Group, and WEF’s engagement with academics, civil society, and international organisations.
“I look forward to working closely with our member airlines, governments, and the ecosystem of partners to build on IATA’s remarkable foundation, ensuring aviation continues to connect the world while embracing innovation, strengthening resilience, and advancing sustainable growth,” said Zahidi.
