High-flyer takes control at Southend Airport
The 57-year old first started working in the aviation industry in 1973 as an Air Traffic Control Assistant and has remained within the industry ever since. Rising through the ranks, Singapore-born Horne was the Chief Executive of Cardiff International Airport prior to joining the Stobart Group’s London Southend operation.
Jon said: “I’m both excited and delighted to be joining London Southend Airport. It is arguably THE success story within our industry of recent years and I’m honoured to be asked to carry that success forward.”
Jon brings to the role a track-record of delivering results through growing business and reducing costs, whilst simultaneously improving customer service standards and experiences. He is also skilled in building strong relationships with staff and key stakeholders and communicating effectively.
After taking over at the helm, Jon says his main focus will be to continue growing the airport’s overall business, by building on the excellent foundations already in place. His vision is to introduce more airlines and destinations, giving travellers more choice: “I want to make ‘simply easier’ London Southend the airport of choice for the region and London,” he states.
Ben Whawell, Chief Financial Officer for the Stobart Group said: “Our plans for the future of London Southend Airport are ambitious and to achieve them, we needed someone with the necessary drive and experience to help us achieve our goal. With Jon bringing his impressive background knowledge and over forty years of aviation industry experience on board, I’m sure we will be able to do that.”
Horne's appointment comes after a record year for London Southend Airport. 2014 saw it break the million passengers mark since its regeneration under the Stobart Group and also win the Which? magazine award for ‘Best Airport’ for the second-successive year.
