17th July 2024: Air Navigation Solutions Limited (ANSL), today announces the appointment of Thomas Hoffmann as its new Chairman with effect from 1st August, 2024.
Thomas replaces Paul Reid, who will be standing down at the end of July in line with ANSL’s corporate governance procedures, having served two full terms as Chairman.
Thomas joins ANSL from its parent company, DFS Deutsche Flugsicherung (DFS). Thomas returned to DFS in February 2023 after previously working with the company from 1999 to 2013 as an air traffic controller and in various leadership capacities. He brings with him a wealth of aviation industry experience, including roles at Lufthansa, and Managing Director positions at Austro Control and Frequentis Comsoft GmbH.
Currently Thomas serves as Director Operations, Tower at DFS across 12 sites in Germany. He will continue to hold this position after assuming responsibility at ANSL.
His appointment as ANSL’s Chairman is designed to enhance alignment between the company’s UK operations and the broader activities of DFS, fostering increased cooperation between ANSL and other businesses within the DFS Group.
Paul Reid will continue to play an active role within ANSL, offering strategic guidance, facilitating the closer integration of wider ANSL operations both domestically and internationally, and driving innovation to meet the ever-evolving needs of the UK aviation sector.
Thomas Hoffmann said: “I am deeply honoured to assume the role of Chairman for such an exciting and forward-thinking company. Having collaborated closely with ANSL during my tenure with DFS, I have witnessed firsthand the dedication of its staff and their relentless pursuit of driving innovative and bespoke solutions in the air traffic management arena.
“My appointment brings with it the opportunity to build on the outstanding work of my predecessor, Paul Reid. I look forward to working with both him and the ANSL board to ensure we continue to be the catalyst for change in air traffic management.”
Paul Reid said: “Having served as Chairman for the past nine years, the time is now right for someone new to lead the ANSL board. Our strategy is to catalyse transformative change and advance our industry forward through innovation. Thomas Hoffmann is a highly qualified executive who shares ANSL’s values and understands the importance of providing innovative air traffic management solutions which airports need if they are to thrive.
“I look forward to continuing to play an active role within ANSL, offering guidance, building on existing relationships and exploring exciting, new possibilities.”
Paul has amassed over 36 years of experience in the aviation industry, beginning his career as an air traffic control officer before spending more than 25 years at NATS in various commercial and leadership positions.
As Chairman of ANSL, Paul has achieved many significant milestones, including securing Gatwick as their first contract within just 18 months of the company’s foundation. He also helped to secure a subsequent contract with Edinburgh Airport, further establishing competition in the UK air traffic management market.
ANSL Managing Director, Henry Game commented: “I would like to welcome Thomas and thank Paul for his brilliant contribution. Paul has overseen much of ANSL’s success as a company, from successfully transitioning into the sixth busiest airport in Europe to introducing another credible presence to the market that had not previously existed.
“Thomas’ appointment represents the continuing progress of ANSL and one that aligns with our values of continuous innovation and disrupting the market.”