Airbus has appointed Gabriel Semelas as its new president for Africa and the Middle East, effective January 1, 2025, the company announced.
Mr Semelas, who has over two decades of experience in the aeronautical sector, returns to Airbus after serving as chief commercial and financial officer at Eurofighter Jagdflugzeug GmbH in Germany.
In his new role, Semelas will oversee Airbus operations across its divisions in the region, which the company views as crucial for its growth strategy.
He previously headed contracts for Airbus’ commercial aircraft business in Africa and the Middle East.
Mr Semelas succeeds Mikail Houari, who helped expand Airbus’ presence in the region during his tenure.
Airbus, employing more than 3,300 people across Africa and the Middle East, continues to develop partnerships and provide technical support, while sourcing supplies locally.
The company has also initiated programmes aimed at developing aerospace skills in the region.