TWO bosses of the Scottish Government-owned Glasgow Prestwick Airport are to leave their jobs as part of a bid to revive the fortunes of the struggling facility.
Chief Executive Iain Cochrane and Chief Commercial Officer Graeme Sweenie will both have left the business by the end of next month, with a search already underway to find replacements.
The airport was purchased by the Scottish Government for £1 in 2013, amid fears it would be forced to close due to heavy losses. Since then, it has continued to be run on a commercial basis, although today's announcement will be seen as significant as ministers seek to reposition the airport, which is a vital part of the Ayrshire economy but may not become profitable for several years.
Airport chairman Andrew Miller said: "Both Iain and Graeme have given Glasgow Prestwick many years’ committed service. I would like to recognise their contribution over the period since I have been Chairman and wish them well for the future.
"The future of Glasgow Prestwick is likely to be quite different from the past. The business model needs to be both re-designed and delivered rapidly so that the airport can look forward to a profitable, sustainable future. The Board believes that this fundamental re-positioning requires new vision, leadership and expertise in the executive team.
"The search for a new Chief Executive and Chief Commercial Officer is already under way. During this transitional period, the recently-appointed team of non-executive directors will provide the necessary support to the management team to ensure that the business continues to operate effectively and efficiently.
"I firmly believe Glasgow Prestwick Airport can return to prosperity but there needs to be a radical turnaround in the business in order to achieve that. The Board is totally determined to deliver for our staff, our customers, our stakeholders, the local community and the Scottish Government who have resolutely backed us to succeed. It will take time but we are committed to do whatever is necessary to deliver that sustainable future for the business."
Both Mr Cochrane and Mr Sweenie said they were looking forward to moving on with their careers by seeking fresh challenges.
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