CALGARY ­— Alexis von Hoensbroech has officially taken over the reins as CEO of The WestJet Group.

News of von Hoensbroech’s appointment first broke in December 2021. He takes over the role from Interim President & CEO Harry Taylor, whose appointment followed the retirement of previous CEO Ed Sims.

On his new role as CEO, von Hoensbroech says: “As the WestJet Group moves into its next chapter, I am thrilled to be joining this dedicated team at such a critical time. As we forge ahead, the more than 8,500 WestJet and Swoop employees have shown admirable tenacity and determination over the last two years. Together, we will emerge from the pandemic stronger and I am excited to work alongside this incredible group as we take WestJet and Swoop to new heights.”

Most recently serving as CEO and CFO of Austrian Airlines, von Hoensbroech spent his early career at The Boston Consulting Group in Munich and Tokyo, working primarily with clients in the aviation industry. He joined the Lufthansa Group in 2005 as head of strategy and investment management, later becoming head of commercial at the airline’s biggest hub in Frankfurt. He also holds a doctorate in physics.

Chris Burley, Chairman of WestJet’s board of directors, officially welcomed von Hoensbroech to the team: “With extensive experience in aviation and in leading a global airline through the pandemic, we are confident that under Alexis’ leadership his vision will accelerate the WestJet Group’s recovery.”

Burley also extended his gratitude to outgoing Interim CEO Taylor, thanking him for his exceptional leadership over the past three months.

“Harry successfully led and stabilized the WestJet Group through a challenging holiday season in the face of the unpredictable impact of the Omicron variant,” said Taylor. “We are grateful for Harry’s dedication and continued leadership as he returns to his permanent role as WestJet Executive Vice-President and Chief Financial Officer.”