Dave Lees, Chief Executive of Bristol Airport, to step down after eight years in the role

Dave Lees has announced he is tol step down as Chief Executive of Bristol Airport after eight years in the role. He will remain with the business until a successor has been appointed, supporting a transition process through to the end of 2026.

Image: Bristol Airport

During his time as Chief Executive, Lees has led a highly successful period for the airport culminating in the recent acquisition of a majority stake by Macquarie Asset Management – a leading owner of, and investor in, airports for more than 20 years.

Under his leadership Bristol Airport has seen an unprecedented growth in passenger numbers and the successful delivery of numerous major transformational projects, including the Public Transport Interchange as well as the positive outcome of the planning application for the airport to expand to 12m passengers annually.

More recently he led on the next stage of growth outlined in the Bristol Airport Masterplan to 2040 as well as launching the planning application to increase passenger numbers to 15m a year. He also steered the airport through the very difficult days of the Covid pandemic and then drove the swiftest post-pandemic recovery of any major airport in the United Kingdom.

Lees commented, “It has been the highlight of my career to lead an amazing, talented and committed team which continues to deliver responsible growth connecting our region to an increasing number of destinations. Together we have delivered significant improvements for our customers, airlines and the community which we are proud to serve including our industry leading position on our pathway to deliver net zero Airport operations by 2030.”

Jason Holt, Chaiman of Bristol Airport commented, “It falls to me to register the Board’s appreciation and thanks for Dave’s efforts over the last eight years. Dave has taken the airport to where it is today through inspired leadership that now sets up the business to build on his work. As Dave passes the baton to his successor, his tenure has safeguarded future growth and prosperity for the airport and its positive impact on the region.

“This is especially so with potential future growth delivering upwards of 1,000 new jobs with increasing long-haul connectivity to global markets. I look forward to continuing to work with Dave for the remainder of the year. As a Board we wish him all the very best for the future as he looks back with pride to the fitting legacy and opportunity he leaves behind for the community and our customers.”