Mumtalakat Holding Company has named Khalid Al-Rumaihi as the new chairman of Bahrain Airport Company (BAC). He replaces Kamal Ahmed who has been appointed the new Minister for Cabinet Affairs.

Al Rumaihi is at present the managing director at the leading investment firm Investcorp.

Welcoming the appointment, Mumtalakat CEO, Talal Al Zain said: 'BAC, supported by Mumtalakat, is central to Bahrain’s national strategy to grow the aviation sector in the Kingdom.'

'Under the guidance of Ahmed, BAC was established and developed as a key delivery agent and manager of aviation infrastructure and services. I would like to personally thank him for the integral role he played in making BAC a success,' Al Zain observed.

“For this new appointment it is clear that Al-Rumaihi’s knowledge of investment banking and experience as a board member of Gulf Air provides a strong backdrop for the position of BAC chairman.'

'We welcome him to this critical role as BAC continues its programme of expansion and diversification,' said Al Zain.

CEO Gordon Dewar said 'The appointment comes at an important stage for BAC as we plan infrastructure improvements to Bahrain International Airport for passengers and commercial operators and develop new commercial services.'

“It is a year since the BAC took full responsibility for the Bahrain International Airport.  It is an exciting and challenging time ahead as we develop further its capability, strengthening Bahrain’s status as a regional aviation hub,” he added

On the new role, Al-Rumaihi said the future success of the Bahrain Airport Company will have a significant positive economic impact for the Kingdom.

'The airport is the main international gate of the Kingdom and its face to the world. I look forward to work with the BAC team of motivated professionals, led by Gordon Dewar,' he stated

'This comes at a time when the BAC progresses its important plans for future development, enhancing both its strategic economic position as well as Bahrain’s air passenger experience. I am determined to put every effort to make it a journey of success for this company. The valuable support of Mumtalakat will be crucial in this effort,' he added.-TradeArabia News Service