BY SYLVANA TEKUMAHA
Solomon Airlines Chairman Frank Wickham has announced the appointment of Matthew Findlay as the airline’s new Chief Executive Officer (CEO).
A Solomon Airlines statement yesterday [Jan 28] said Mr Findlay will commence duty on February 16, prior to that Solomon Airlines and Findlay will attend to all final regulatory requirements of The Civil Aviation Authority of Solomon Islands (CAASI).
“Matthew’s extensive experience and exposure to the challenges of Pacific aviation will enable Solomon Airlines under his leadership, to further solidify our operational aspirations and to realise enhanced growth opportunities,” Wickham said.
Solomon Airlines Interim CEO Paul Abbot welcomed Mr Findlay, describing his appointment as ideal to support the national carrier to release its potential and continue its strategy to connect the Solomon Islands to countries throughout the Pacific region and beyond.
There will be a transition in the executive leadership in 2025 with the appointment of Abbot as Interim CEO for a 6-month period during which time Solomon Airlines conducted an executive search for a permanent candidate for CEO.
Wickham thanked Abbot for his support and commitment to Solomon Airlines as Interim CEO for the past 7 months, during a particularly difficult era for the national airline, and wished him well in the future.
Findlay said, “It’s an exciting time for Solomon Airlines and for Solomon Islands as the company navigates current challenges in some markets, and explores vast potential in others, to support the nation in diversifying its economy.”
“The Solomon Islands and the broader Pacific region offer much untapped potential for tourism, trade and air connectivity between nations and larger global markets,” he said.
As he steps into the role of Chief Executive Officer at Solomon Airlines, Findlay leaves behind a successful aviation consulting business, highly regarded by national, state and territory tourism, airport and airline stakeholders.
He served clients across Australia, New Zealand, and the Pacific, Findlay brings a wealth of industry respect and a proven track record of fostering strong professional relationships throughout the Pacific region.
Outside of the aviation industry, he will resign his role as Club Secretary for Nelson Bay Junior Rugby Union Club, but remains a keen rugby follower and hopes to make a contribution to the sport in the Solomons.
Findlay’s wife Shelley and three teenage children will often join him upon his relocation to Honiara.
The appointment comes after a rigorous shortlisting and selection process including consultation with the Ministry of Finance and Treasury. Findlay has an extensive career in the aviation industry in Oceania, Europe and North America.
Abbot will assist through a transition period to the new CEO.
