IAG Cargo appoints new managing director

IAG Cargo, the cargo division of International Airlines Group (IAG) has appointed David Shepherd as managing director.

David Shepherd, who is joining from Aer Lingus, is well known in the industry having previously held a variety of leadership roles at IAG Cargo including the positions of commercial director and director of Digital Ventures.

Shepherd will report into David Podolsky, who will continue in his role as chief executive of the business, having served in the interim role since April 2021.

The bolstering of the IAG Cargo executive team, reflects the growing importance of cargo within the Group. In 2020 the business delivered exceptional results, amid a challenging economic and capacity environment, reporting commercial revenues of €1,306 million over the period from January 1 to December 31 2020, an increase of 18.5 per cent on 2019 at constant currency.

David Podolsky, chief executive at IAG Cargo said, “As we build on the success of 2020, we are excited to be welcoming David back who brings a wealth of experience. David will lead all aspects of our business in close collaboration with me, in this vital time in aviation.  The past year has shown just how essential air cargo is for industries around the world and this appointment reflects the importance of cargo in the Group.”

Shepherd who will be re-joining IAG Cargo on 1 August 2021 said, “I am delighted to be returning to IAG Cargo working closely with David and the wider cargo team at this time of unprecedented change as we look to expand and further transform our cargo offering.”