Aer Lingus` Group Chief Executive Garry Cullen today, February 9th, announced his resignation.  In outlining the reasons for his decision, Mr Cullen said “now that airline privatisation is clearly set to proceed, I have given full consideration to the position of Group Chief Executive during the IPO process and in its aftermath and have decided that for personal reasons, this is a role that I do not wish for myself”. “I believe it is necessary to clarify my intentions in advance of the IPO process and, accordingly,  I have informed the Chairman that I am resigning my position as Group Chief Executive”, he added.  “I wish the company and staff well in what I know will be a very successful future”, Mr Cullen said.

Accepting Mr Cullen’s resignation with regret, the Group’s Chairman, Bernie Cahill paid tribute to the major contribution made by the former Group Chief Executive in the development of the airline in a 35 year career with Aer Lingus. “Garry Cullen’s contribution to Aer Lingus was central to the profitable growth of the business over recent years and in particular he played a major part in the strategic development of the airline”, Mr Cahill said. 

Mr Cahill added that Larry Stanley, currently Deputy Chief Executive, would act as Group Chief Executive with immediate effect pending a permanent appointment.

Mr Cahill continued “Aer Lingus is in a very strong position with a track record as one of the best performing airlines in Europe.  We have had strong profitable growth in all our markets in recent years.  We have a clear business focus, an experienced and able management team who have delivered this performance including membership of the oneworld global alliance.  The business fundamentals are right and I am confident that the proposed IPO will further enhance the development of the airline”, he added.

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