IRELAND. The board of the Dublin Airport Authority (DAA) – the successor to Aer Rianta – has begun the search for a new Chief Executive.
After the controversy over Transport Minister Seamus Brennan’s break-up of the state-owned Irish airports operator and retailer, the role will be an intensely political and – in the early stages – tricky one.
In an advertisement placed today, candidates are asked to apply for the post, which carries a seven-year term.
The total remuneration involved has not been disclosed, but it is likely to be at least €300,000, according to a report in the Irish Times. This was the salary, bonus and pension contribution paid to chief executives annually at Aer Rianta.
According to the advertisement one of the most immediate challenges facing the “executive team” at the authority is the provision of “new terminal capacity” and relieving congestion at Dublin Airport.
Under the State Airports Act, the Dublin Airport Authority will have responsibility for the Great Southern Hotel chain, overseas airport investments and the retail operations of Aer Rianta and Aer Rianta International.
The DAA, arguably the worst acronym in the global aviation business, is the first of three proposed independent entities, covering Dublin, Cork and Shannon airports. The DAA will remain in charge of Cork and Shannon airports temporarily until new boards are appointed to run the other facilities and their respective business plans win government approval.
That is unlikely to happen before next May.
The DAA assumed control of the assets, liabilities, contracts and obligations of Aer Rianta – including its international and duty free activities – on 1 October.
However, importantly, Aer Rianta and its international retail operations are still trading under their traditional name and identity.
MORE STORIES ON THE AER RIANTA BREAK-UP
Arise Dublin Airport Authority; R.I.P. Aer Rianta – 01/10/04
Controversial Aer Rianta break-up Bill is passed – 15/07/04
Summer break-up for Aer Rianta but no mention of fate of international division – 23/06/04
