Executives in Focus

Thompson Aero Seating names Keith Anderson as new CEO

Thompson Aero Seating names Keith Anderson as new CEO.
Before joining Thompson, Keith Anderson served as the Chief Operating Officer at IQE plc.

In this role as CEO, Keith Anderson will drive the ongoing growth and success of Thompson Aero Seating, a company recognized for its innovative contributions to the aviation industry.

Thompson Aero Seating, a renowned player in the design and manufacturing of premium seating for major airlines, has welcomed Keith Anderson as its new CEO, effective from August 1, 2023. In this role, Keith will drive the ongoing growth and success of Thompson, a company recognized for its innovative contributions to the aviation industry. Keith Anderson is a seasoned leader celebrated for his ability to achieve business success by cultivating high-performing and engaged workforces within a culture of agility and determination. His collaborative and ambitious approach aligns seamlessly with the ethos of Thompson Aero Seating, which places a strong emphasis on talent development, leadership excellence, and continuous learning.

Before joining Thompson, Keith Anderson served as the Chief Operating Officer at IQE plc. His remarkable career includes a successful six-year tenure at Collins Aerospace in Kilkeel, during which he held the position of Business Unit Director for Collins’ business-class seats. Under his leadership, the business unit achieved a remarkable three-fold increase in revenue, coupled with robust profitability. Keith played an instrumental role in delivering major seating programs on time, leaving behind a legacy of excellence as he moved on.

Andy Morris, Chief Commercial Officer at Thompson Aero Seating said, “Keith is a collaborative executive leader with a wealth of manufacturing and leadership experience, gained across multiple industries, and a track record for consistently transforming organizations and teams to deliver outstanding results. Everyone at Thompson would like to thank Neil for his exceptional dedication to the business over the last five years. We wish him the very best in his new role and we are confident that he will continue to excel in his career. We are delighted to welcome Keith to the team and are looking forward to seeing what the company can achieve next under his leadership.”

Outgoing CEO Neil Taggart, who significantly contributed to Thompson Aero Seating’s resilience during the challenges of the pandemic, will be transitioning to a new role. Neil’s steadfast dedication ensured that Keith Anderson would inherit a globally-oriented business with a robust order book and a motivated workforce known for its innovation and inspired design.

Keith Anderson, CEO, Thompson Aero Seating said, “I am excited about the prospect of guiding Thompson Aero Seating on the next part of its journey as a leading and inspirational aircraft seating designer and manufacturer. The company has a hugely talented workforce and ambitious plans for growth and prominence, based upon outstanding products and service, and I look forward to leading the team to deliver these targets, and more.”

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As Keith Anderson takes the helm at Thompson Aero Seating, the company stands poised to continue its legacy of innovation and excellence in the aviation industry, with a strong focus on fostering collaboration, nurturing talent, and achieving remarkable results.