Alitalia appoints new CEO

Alitalia announced (05-Sep-2014) the appointment of Silvano Cassano as CEO, effective following the closing of the transaction implementation agreement signed with Etihad Airways on 08-Aug-2014. As previously reported by CAPA, both parties expect the transaction to close by 31-Dec-2014. Alitalia stated: "Alitalia and Etihad Airways identified Mr Cassano as the most suitable candidate after appropriate consultation. Mr Cassano has more than 35 years of experience in senior management roles across a number of industries. He has also served as chairman and CEO of Italian shipping company Grandi Navi Veloci, CEO of global fashion brand Benetton Group, CEO of Fiat Auto Financial and Consumer Services, and Vice President European Operations at Hertz Europe." [more - original PR - English/Italian]