International Airlines Group has appointed Javier Sánchez-Prieto as the new chairman and chief executive of Vueling.

He will replace Alex Cruz who will become chairman and chief executive of British Airways.

Javier Sánchez-Prieto is currently Iberia’s chief financial officer.

In his new role, he will report into IAG chief executive Willie Walsh and join the IAG Management Committee.

Commenting on the new appointment, Walsh said: “Javier has an excellent track record at Iberia and has been instrumental in achieving the airline’s financial turnaround.

“I’m confident that he will continue the great progress that Vueling has made - the airline has expanded profitably across Europe while remaining focused on keeping costs low.

“Javier will develop that strategy and ensure that Vueling remains a dynamic and innovative carrier”.

Sánchez-Prieto is a member of the Vueling board and joined Iberia in 2013 having previously been chief financial officer at Iberia Express since the airline was formed in 2012.

Before that he spent several years working at the Uralita Group in a variety of roles and at Air Nostrum.

Sánchez-Prieto said: “I’m delighted to have been asked to lead Vueling. The airline has a strong, highly motivated team and we will continue to ensure that it goes from strength to strength.”

His replacement as Iberia chief financial officer will be announced in due course.