The newly appointed executives will play crucial roles in shaping SIA’s operations and financial strategies, as well as reinforcing its commitment to delivering exceptional customer experiences.
Singapore Airlines (SIA) has revealed several senior management appointments, set to take effect on September 10, 2023. These strategic changes aim to ensure the airline is well-positioned to navigate future challenges and seize opportunities. The newly appointed executives will play crucial roles in shaping SIA’s operations and financial strategies, as well as reinforcing its commitment to delivering exceptional customer experiences.
Tan Kai Ping, currently the Executive Vice President Finance and Strategy and Chief Financial Officer, will assume the position of Executive Vice President Operations and Chief Operations Officer. In this new role, he will oversee SIA’s Cabin Crew, Customer Services and Operations, Engineering, and Flight Operations divisions. Tan has been instrumental in the successful fundraising efforts during the Covid-19 pandemic, strengthening the Group’s financial resilience and optimizing working capital. His expertise also played a pivotal role in restructuring the Group’s aircraft order book to align with future capacity and fleet requirements. Moreover, he has been actively involved in the proposed merger between Air India and Vistara, a significant component of SIA’s multi-hub strategy.
Goh Choon Phong, Chief Executive Officer, Singapore Airlines said, “These new appointments reflect the strength of SIA’s management bench, and are a testament to our executives’ ability to undertake a wide range of senior-level responsibilities. Having the right talent in place will ensure that the SIA Group is ready to take on future challenges, and seize the opportunities that come our way. On behalf of the Company, I would like to thank Mak for his long and distinguished service. He has made many outstanding contributions to the SIA Group, and his leadership and experience were instrumental to our success in navigating the unprecedented challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic. Personally, I have benefited much from Mak’s valuable counsel over the years. I wish him a very happy and well-deserved retirement.”
JoAnn Tan, currently serving as Senior Vice President Marketing Planning, will assume the role of Senior Vice President Finance and Chief Financial Officer. In her current position, Tan played a key role in swiftly restoring SIA’s network connectivity and capacity after the reopening of borders, enabling the airline to meet the pent-up demand for air travel and achieve record passenger revenue in FY2022/23. Tan also fostered synergies between SIA and Scoot, leveraging network coverage, cross-sales, and customer loyalty. She spearheaded the growth of SIA’s adjacent business engines, including KrisFlyer, Kris+, and Pelago, and further strengthened strategic partnerships with global airlines, expanding market presence and enhancing customer options.
Dai Hao Yu, Divisional Vice President Digital, will be promoted to Acting Senior Vice President Marketing Planning. With a distinguished career spanning over two decades at SIA, Dai has held various overseas positions in key markets, contributing to the airline’s success. In his current role, he has led the digital transformation of the SIA Group, facilitating an agile and adaptive response to the dynamic operating environment, particularly during the pandemic.
After an illustrious 40-year tenure with Singapore Airlines, Mak Swee Wah, the current Executive Vice President Operations and Chief Operations Officer, will retire on September 9, 2023. Mak has held several senior management positions both in Singapore and overseas and played a crucial role in managing the Group’s response to the challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic. He chaired the Restart Task Force, ensuring operational readiness for a swift recovery.
Goh Choon Phong, Chief Executive Officer of Singapore Airlines, commended the newly appointed executives, emphasizing the strength of SIA’s management bench and their ability to undertake senior-level responsibilities. He also expressed gratitude to Mak for his invaluable contributions to the SIA Group and acknowledged his exceptional leadership in navigating the unprecedented challenges of the pandemic.
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These management appointments demonstrate SIA’s commitment to assembling a talented and capable team to guide the airline into the future. With a focus on operational excellence, financial resilience, and customer-centric strategies, Singapore Airlines is poised to thrive in an ever-evolving aviation landscape.
