Global Infrastructure Partners (GIP) has today formally taken ownership of Edinburgh Airport, and has revealed that Gordon Dewar, a former managing director of the airport, has been appointed chief executive officer.

Mr Dewar is currently CEO of Bahrain International Airport and will rejoin Edinburgh Airport in the summer, when free from his current commitments. The airport’s current managing director, Jim O’Sullivan, has agreed to continue in his role until then.

Michael McGhee, the GIP partner who led the acquisition of Edinburgh Airport, said:“Gordon is an outstanding airport executive, with relevant experience of Edinburgh Airport. We are pleased to have secured his return and look forward to supporting him and his team as they begin the important job of establishing Edinburgh Airport as a more dynamic, competitive player in the global aviation industry.

“It is important to acknowledge the important role played by current airport managing director, Jim O’Sullivan, who has steered his team through the sale process with the highest levels of professionalism and focus. He will leave Edinburgh Airport in good shape, and with our best wishes.”

Gordon Dewar, who was managing director of Edinburgh Airport between 2008 and 2010, said:

“Edinburgh is my home city, and I am excited to be returning to one of the most important jobs in the capital. The challenge of leading the airport and the team into a new era of competition and growth is an irresistible one, and very different to the role I once played in BAA.

“Edinburgh Airport’s future, its plans and its identity, will all be shaped in Edinburgh, and our decisions will only be influenced by what is good for Edinburgh Airport, and the city and country we serve.”

Sir John Elvidge, who becomes Chairman of Edinburgh Airport today, said: “Today represents the opening of a new, exciting chapter in the history of Scotland’s capital city airport. We don’t expect to change overnight, but we have an excellent, supportive owner and a world-class management team; each of us is determined to raise Scotland’s profile around the world, connect Edinburgh with more destinations, and provide passengers with a great experience and more choice. The hard work starts today.”