Heathrow’s new boss tried to launch a beer energy drink, and other important facts
Heathrow Airport confirmed this morning that John Holland-Kaye, its development director, will take over from Colin Matthews as chief executive in July.
Europe’s busiest airport said Holland-Kaye, who has worked for Heathrow since 2009, has played a big role in revamping Terminal 2 as well as planning for a possible third runway.
Here are three lesser-known facts about the new airport boss:
- He carries in his bag a copy of the Transport Select Committee report on the delays and problems during the opening of Heathrow Terminal 5 “to make sure we learn the lessons of last time around” .
- He has a history in the drinks business, working as sales director for Bass Brewers. Holland-Kaye helped launch the UK’s first lager-based energy drink, named Mojo, in 2001. Despite backing from the National Union of Students, Mojo sadly never caught on.
- The 49-year-old used to be head of investor relations at FTSE 100 housebuilder Taylor Woodrow (known as Taylor Wimpey since its 2007 merger). His experience in property proved useful when it came to Heathrow owner BAA’s legacy stakes in ventures with factory outlet developer McArthur Glen, in which he served as a director until 2012.