Karen Smart will join East Midlands Airport as managing director in April

March 22, 2018: Karen Smart who is currently with the London Stansted Airport as director of landside operations, will be joining UK’s largest pure cargo airport, East Midlands Airport, as managing director in April.

Smart will take over from Andy Cliffe, the current managing director of East Midlands Airport.

Cliffe was with East Midlands Airport, since last five years. Earlier, he served Manchester Airports Group (MAG), the largest British-owned airport operator, for 19 years.

According to the airport, Cliffe is moving on to take up a new role as CEO of Midland Expressway, which operates the M6 Toll road.

Smart joined MAG in 2014, and simultaneously held the portfolio as customer services & security director, London Stansted Airport. She also spent several years with Serco, and had an established career with United Kingdom’s Royal Air Force (RAF).

During his stint with East Midlands Airport, Cliffe was responsible to increase passenger numbers, transform terminal facilities, and oversee the award-winning runway redevelopment programme.

East Midlands Airport also now plays a pivotal role in driving UK’s economy, which is the country’s largest airport for dedicated cargo traffic.

Charlie Cornish, Group CEO, Manchester Airports Group said: “Andy has done a tremendous job in driving East Midlands Airport forward as a vital piece of UK infrastructure. The airport provides a valuable service to leisure and business passengers across the region, and through its significant cargo operation, it’s responsible to fuel the national economy.”

“Karen Smart is an exceptional leader, and with her strong track record, I am sure she will build on the great foundations that exist at the East Midlands Airport,” said Cornish.

“It’s a hugely exciting time in the aviation industry, and I feel privileged to be taking on the role of MD at the East Midlands Airport. “I’m look forward to continuing the drive to attract new airlines to serve the vibrant region, and further improve the customer experience,” said Smart.