dnata appoints new leaders to drive global airport operations
Alex Doisneau to lead APAC and MEA operations while James Butler steps in as UK Managing Director.;
Alex Doisneau; James Butler
dnata, a global air and travel services provider, has announced two senior leadership changes to support the continued growth of its airport operations worldwide. Alex Doisneau named as the Regional CEO for Airport Operations - APAC and MEA while James Butler appointed as the Managing Director of dnata Airport Operations UK
Alex Doisneau’s appointment as Regional Chief Executive Officer for Airport Operations in the Asia Pacific (APAC) and Middle East & Africa (MEA) regions is in effect from 1 August 2025. She will oversee dnata’s ground handling and cargo operations across Australia, Singapore, the Philippines, Pakistan, Iraq and Zanzibar (Tanzania), leading a team of nearly 8,000 employees. These teams handle over 110,000 aircraft turns and about 800,000 tonnes of cargo each year across 23 airports.
Alex joined dnata in 2012 as General Manager of UK Cargo Operations and became Managing Director of dnata Airport Operations UK in 2020. She brings nearly 30 years of aviation and ground handling experience to her new role. She will report to Clive Sauvé-Hopkins, CEO - Airport Operations at dnata, and will relocate to Dubai.
“Alex has led our UK operations with clarity, consistency, and a strong people-first approach,” said Sauvé-Hopkins. “Her track record of operational leadership, commercial acumen, and focus on safety and service make her the ideal choice to lead our business in these fast-growing regions. We look forward to the impact she will have as we continue to grow our international footprint.”
With Alex moving to the regional role, James Butler has been appointed Managing Director of dnata Airport Operations UK. He will now lead dnata's ground handling and cargo services at six airports in the UK.
James joined dnata in 2018 and has served as Finance Director since 2020, where he managed financial strategy, business planning, and operations. His previous roles at Menzies Aviation and Flybe have given him strong experience in the aviation and logistics sectors.
“Alex and James represent the strength of our internal talent pipeline,” Sauvé-Hopkins added. “Their promotions reflect our continued commitment to investing in our people and creating opportunities for growth.”