Update on 01 March 2022: Mr. Ilker Ayci has released a statement saying that he will not be joining Air India as its Chief Executive Officer.
On Monday, 14th February, Tata group announced that the former Chairman of Turkish Airlines, Mr. Ilker Ayci has been appointed as new CEO (Chief Executive Officer) and MD (Managing Director) of Air India. Ilker Ayci will start his role on or before 1st April 2022.
About Ilker Ayci
Born in 1971 in Istanbul, he studied Political Science and Public Administration from Bilkent University (a leading Turkish university).
He completed Master’s program in International Relations at the Marmara University, Istanbul in 1997
During his successful career, he has held several positions with Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality, and served as adviser to Erdogan (then Mayor and the current President of Turkey).
Later, he also served as the CEO of several insurance companies and as the chairman of the Republic of Turkey Investment Support and Promotion Agency,
Ayci had been serving Turkish Airlines from 2015 and is said to be a pioneer in aviation industry.
Role of CEO and MD
A CEO is the highest level of hierarchy of the organization and they are concerned with making strategies and goals for the company. MD, on the other hand , is among the highest leaders of the organization.
Ever since Tata group took over Air India in January 2021, it has been keen on finalizing accomplished professionals to revive the airlines. For this, several potential candidates, including those who are in European and American aviation industry have been interviewed.
Mr. Ayci’s appointment was announced after this selection process.
Update on 25th February: This appointment will have to be approved by the Government of India. The process is underway.