On November 1, Greenland Airports will have a new CEO when Jeppe Jensen takes office and takes over from Jens Lauridsen.
This appointment also marks the beginning of a new phase for Greenland Airports. Following the establishment of the new airports in Nuuk and Qaqortoq, as well as the upcoming opening of the international airport in Ilulissat, the focus is gradually shifting from construction to operations, development, and value creation.
The task in the coming years will be to ensure stable and safe operations, continue the development of the airports, and create the greatest possible value for travelers, the business community, and Greenlandic society.
A natural next step
Board Chairman Jens Willumsen sees Jeppe Jensen as the right leader for the next phase.
“Greenland Airports is at a natural turning point. The past few years have been about establishing new airports, while the coming years will be about realizing their potential through safe operations, continued development, and increased accessibility. This is a different challenge, which is why we have been looking for a leader with the right experience and skills to spearhead this particular phase.”
He also takes this opportunity to extend special thanks to Jens Lauridsen for his efforts, which have brought Greenland Airports to the stage it is at today.
“Jeppe has extensive experience in both critical infrastructure and the management of large organizations. At the same time, he has a strong commercial understanding, which we would like to capitalize on. In short, his profile is a really good fit for the next phase in Greenland Airports’ development as a critical infrastructure company that will open up even more opportunities for all of Greenland.”
I would also like to take this opportunity to thank Jens Lauridsen for his tremendous efforts. What began as a project to build three new airports evolved along the way to also include the merger of Kalaallit Airports and Mittarfeqarfiit into the Greenland Airports we know today, as well as the transition from construction to operations. Jens has led this effort with great dedication, and his work has laid the foundation upon which Jeppe will now build.”
Jeppe Jensen comes from his position as CEO of KNI A/S and has previously served on the executive board of Mittarfeqarfiit and held management positions at Tusass.
A Joyful Reunion
For several employees, this won’t be the first time they’ve worked with Jeppe Jensen.
Senior Director Niels Grosen worked with Jeppe at Mittarfeqarfiit and is pleased that he is now returning to Greenland Airports.
“I look forward to welcoming Jeppe back. He is a leader who treats people as equals and who is genuinely interested in both the task at hand and the people carrying it out.”
Niels also points out that Jeppe is familiar with the airports and has gained valuable experience outside the industry.
“Jeppe is returning with new perspectives from KNI, and he also has in-depth knowledge of both the airports and local conditions. That combination will be a major strength for Greenland Airports.”
Looking forward to coming back
For Jeppe Jensen, it was Greenland Airports’ role in the community in particular that made the decision to say yes a natural one.
“Throughout my entire career, I have been motivated by working for companies that carry out important tasks for Greenlandic society. This also applies to Greenland Airports. Aviation is essential for bringing people together, enabling businesses to grow, and ensuring social cohesion in our country. It is a task I very much look forward to undertaking together with our employees and partners.”
The upcoming opening of Ilulissat Airport will also be of particular significance.
“I was born and raised in Ilulissat, so it will of course be something very special to be here when the new international airport opens. But first and foremost, it will be a great day for both the town and for all of Greenland. I look forward to helping ensure that both the new and existing airports will benefit all of Greenland for many years to come.”
Jeppe Jensen will attend the opening of Ilulissat Airport on October 29 and will officially take office as CEO on November 1.
