27 April 2020: Sebastian Mikosz, the group MD and CEO of Kenya Airways (2017-2019) will replace Paul Steele as IATA's Senior Vice President for Member and External Relations. Prior to joining Kenya Airways, Mikosz was the CEO of LOT Polish Airlines and also the CEO of eSKY Group. In addition to his airline experience, Mikosz's career includes the positions of Vice President at the Polish Information and Foreign Investment Agency, Senior Advisor at Socit Gnrale Corporate Investment Bank, Managing Director of the French Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Poland and founder of the online brokerage house Fast Trade.
The appointment will be effective from 1st June 2020 after which Mikosz will lead the organization's global advocacy activities and aero-political policy development, along with managing the association's strategic relationships. Mikosz will report to the Director General and CEO and join the Association's Strategic Leadership Team.
"Sebastian brings with him a wealth of experience in the public and private sectors that will be critical in advancing the global aviation industry's advocacy agenda. At this time of unprecedented crisis, the airline industry needs a strong voice. We must restore the confidence of governments and travellers so that aviation can re-start, lead an economic recovery, and connect the world. Sebastian's experience in launching and turning-around companies will be invaluable in helping IATA meet the expectations of our members, governments and stakeholders," said Alexandre de Juniac, IATA's Director General and CEO.
"I can't wait to get started at IATA. Aviation is in crisis and all industry and government stakeholders have high expectations for IATA to play a critical role in driving the recovery. From my experience as an airline CEO and as a member of the IATA Board of Governors, I know how important IATA is to the global connectivity that we usually take for granted. Today's challenges could not be greater. And, in joining IATA, I am determined to contribute to the efficient restoration of the links between people, nations and economies that only aviation can provide," said Mikosz.