Bahrain’s national carrier Gulf Air is expected to have a new leader from October as Mr. Krešimir Kučko, its current Chief Executive Officer will step down from his role at the end of the month.
Mr. Kučko who joined the airlines in 2007 post his stint at Croatia Airlines aligned the organization’s strategy with clear corporate goals and a concise five-year network and fleet expansion plan.
Over an illustrious career, Mr. Kučko achieved significant cost-cutting initiatives at great success while increasing its revenue, rolling out a host of updated services for passengers and cutting operational losses. All of this was accomplished in a challenging operating environment filled with increasing competition, fluctuating fuel prices and, most recently, the pandemic which has impacted the global aviation landscape.
Commenting on this development, Chairman of Gulf Air’s Board of Directors H.E. Mr. Zayed R. Alzayani said: “We extend our sincere thanks to Mr. Krešimir Kučko for his dedication, contributions and services during his tenure with us. On behalf of Gulf Air’s Board of Directors, the airline’s management team and workforce I extend my thanks to him for his contributions and wish him success going forward.”
Mr. Kučko said: “I was truly honored to have contributed to the success story of Gulf Air over the past three years amidst the many challenges we faced. Working with a talented, majority Bahraini workforce of aviation professionals has been a positive experience that saw us collectively deliver strong results for Gulf Air. The experience of living in the Kingdom of Bahrain has been truly incredible both for myself and my family; we have been warmly welcomed by all and truly embraced Bahrain’s rich culture.”
The statement did not specify the reason for Kucko’s departure.