EasyJet selects Guardian's McCall as CEO

EasyJet tapped media executive Carolyn McCall, who ran the UK's Guardian Media Group, as its new CEO, succeeding the departing Andy Harrison.

The LCC said McCall "has a proven track record of successful operational delivery in a fast-changing online consumer facing business combined with extensive plc board and government and lobbying experience."

Harrison announced his resignation in December following disagreements with founder and majority shareholder Stelios Haji-Ioannou and plans to leave the accompany at the end of June (ATWOnline, Dec. 10, 2009). EasyJet said McCall's start date "will be confirmed in due course."

McCall said, "My priority will be to build on easyJet's strengths: A strong consumer proposition, leadership positions in many of Europe's key airports, and an operating model built around simplicity and low cost." She joined Guardian in 1986 and was CEO of its Guardian News and Media arm from 2000 to 2006, when she was elevated to group CEO.