IRELAND. Shannon Group CEO Matthew Thomas (pictured) is to leave the company in June to take up the position of Chief Executive Officer of the Ports of Jersey. Shannon Group runs Shannon Airport among other businesses. Deputy CEO Mary Considine will take on the role of Acting CEO from June until a successor to Thomas joins the group.
Thomas is well known in travel retail circles for his senior commercial roles at various airport groups, including Newcastle Airport, Hermes Airports, Peel Airports and Vantage Airport Group.
As reported, Thomas joined Shannon Group in June 2016 and according to the company, oversaw a period of growth. Passenger numbers climbed 6.5% to 1.86 million at Shannon Airport in 2018, while Shannon Commercial Properties completed a €40 million investment in the first phase of its redevelopment of the Shannon Free Zone. Visitor numbers to Shannon Heritage grew to a record high of almost 925,000 last year.
Chair Rose Hynes said: “Matthew came on board as CEO at an exciting time for Shannon Group. Over the last three years, each business within the Group – Shannon Airport, Shannon Heritage and Shannon Commercial Properties has performed strongly despite often very challenging and uncertain commercial conditions. Profitability has improved significantly across all our businesses enabling us to embark on the next stage of investment.”
Thomas said: “We have made real progress in developing our business and organisation over the past three years. I regret that I will not be involved in the continued growth of the company. However, I am looking forward to the exciting opportunity I have been offered to lead the development of the Ports of Jersey.
“My family and I have thoroughly enjoyed our time in the Mid-West and will be leaving with heavy hearts having made many lasting friendships, but looking forward to an exciting future in Jersey.”
Announcing the appointment, Chairman of the Board of Directors for Ports of Jersey Charles Clarke said: “We are delighted to have secured a CEO with the strong track record that Matt brings and look forward to working with him on the development of Ports of Jersey.”
Thomas succeeds former Ports of Jersey CEO Doug Bannister who stepped down in December 2018. Alan Merry, the company’s Director of Strategy & Development will continue in the role of Acting CEO until Thomas joins the organisation.
Ports of Jersey Limited operates the island’s airport and harbours.
