Javier Sánchez-Prieto, 51, is now replacing Luis Gallego as Iberia Group's executive chairman.

The new Iberia's head holds a degree in Economics and Commerce, and a degree in Aviation Technical Engineering from the Madrid Politechnic University.

He held the position of Strategic Planning and Finance Director at Iberia during the period when the company returned to profitability after several years of losses.

Previously, he was part of the founding team of the low-cost Iberia Express unit, in charge of strategic planning, finance, purchasing, IT systems, aircraft fleet, human resources and legal affairs.

Earlier in his career, Mr. Sánchez-Prieto held a series of positions within the Uralita building materials group, working in the area of strategy and as General Business Manager. Previously, he had worked in the maintenance, strategy and management control departments of Air Nostrum.