BENSCHOP TO SUCCEED NIJHUIS AS CEO OF ROYAL SCHIPHOL GROUP ON MAY 1

Dick Benschop will succeed the retiring Jos Nijhuis as CEO of the Royal Schiphol Group, operator of Amsterdam Schiphol Airport, on May 1. 

Benschop was State Secretary for Foreign Affairs in the second Dutch cabinet led by Prime Minister Wim Kok From 1998 to 2002 and later went to work for Royal Dutch Shell, where he fulfilled a number of positions,

Before becoming State Secretary, he worked in an advisory role to the Schiphol Group for four years.

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Louise Gunning, chair of the supervisory board of Royal Schiphol Group, says: "Given his experience in the public domain, combined with his ample experience in the business world, we are convinced that he will be able to encourage all parties involved to join forces and set the course for the next phase of Schiphol. 

"We believe that he will be able to address the complex challenges of Dutch aviation. It is our conviction that he and his team are capable of further developing the airport smartly, safely and sustainably."

Many challenges and opportunities

Benschop comments: "Schiphol is a special place and wonderful company that I have worked for previously. I am really looking forward to the opportunity of leading one of the most dynamic organisations in the Netherlands. 

"Aviation is synonymous with many challenges and opportunities. How can we continue to develop sustainably? 



"How can we find a new balance between nuisance and the economic importance based on trust? Each and every one big issues, which I am looking forward to addressing on behalf of the Netherlands, passengers, airlines and local residents."

Nijhuis to take on international duties for RSG after July 1

The Royal Schiphol Group notes that Jos Nijhuis' will remain at the company until July 1 after he agreed to stay on beyond for another few months after his planned March 31 retirement date to ensure a smooth transition in leadership.

However, as agreed with RSG, he will be available for the Schiphol Group's international activities until April 1, 2019.

Gunning notes: "Under the management of Jos, Schiphol grew to become the airport with the best direct connectivity in Europe and the global runner-up for hub connectivity. 

"Together with the airlines and KLM in particular, Jos made an important contribution to the connection of the Netherlands with the rest of the world. 

"Schiphol also realised substantial progress in the field of sustainability under his leadership. We appreciate that he will be using his knowledge and experience in continuing his contribution to the foreign activities of Schiphol."