KUALA LUMPUR – The appointment of Gordon Andrew Stewart as Malaysia Airports Holdings Bhd’s (MAHB) chief operating officer underwent a rigorous selection process, which included a thorough screening by the company’s board and adherence to strict corporate governance procedures.
MAHB said that all C-suite and senior general manager appointments are evaluated by the Board Nomination and Remuneration Committee and subsequently recommended to the Main Board for approval.
“In the case of Stewart, his extensive industry expertise in regard to operational challenges, relevant experience in brownfield project management, and cultural understanding from his previous work placements positions him as a highly-suited candidate for the role,” MAHB told Scoop.
The company was responding to news reports by media outlets in the Maldives regarding his abrupt departure from Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL), and which had seen Stewart accused of hiring expatriates who allegedly had close relationships with him.
On September 30, MAHB announced Stewart’s appointment for airport operations in Malaysia effective October 1. They said Stewart comes with 33 years of experience in multiple industries including aviation, rail, and information technology.
Prior to joining MAHB, Stewart was the global projects director at DAA International, a global airports management, consulting and investment group headquartered in Dublin, Ireland that manages international airports across the world, including in Europe and the Middle East.
Stewart’s experience includes serving as chief executive officer and managing director at MACL, where he was responsible for steering the development and operations of Velana International Airport.
MAHB told Scoop that Stewart also had previous stints with the British Airports Authority, as well as in affiliated sectors with companies such as ScotRail, Bombardier, Compaq, and IBM, which “will contribute significantly to the sustainable growth of Malaysia Airports.”
Responding to the Maldivian reports, MAHB said its Board was aware of his departure from Maldives Airports Company after serving there for less than two years.
“The Board is satisfied that the departure had been due to a difference in professional opinion. Prior to Maldives Airports Company, Stewart had served at Bahrain Airport Company for nine years,” it said.
MAHB also said the appointment was made after careful consideration and evaluation by the Board of his extensive experience and expertise.
Stewart is expected to provide robust strategic leadership for the entire airport operations value chain, with a specific focus on enhancing airports’ operational and financial performance, it said.
“This involves ensuring the stability of airport operations, promoting effective facilities management, integrating digital technology into airport operations, driving transformation, and adopting globally recognised best practices.”
“He is also tasked with championing an organisation-wide cultural shift, alongside the rest of the leadership team, to promote empowerment and accountability in order to drive service and operational performance excellence.”
The company noted that it has faced significant challenges due to the global Covid-19 pandemic, leading to various cost-cutting measures, including a hiring freeze.
“With the imminent recovery, we are now looking forward to fostering an environment of innovation through diversity, while remaining committed to empowering Malaysian professionals,” it said.
“We have confidence that the collective efforts of a diverse team will drive corporate excellence for the group.” – October 4, 2023