Airbus Appoints Gabriel Semelas as President for Africa and Middle East
Semelas to lead Airbus in the MEA region from 2025
September 17, 2024 — Airbus has announced Gabriel Semelas as President of Airbus in Africa and the Middle East, effective January 1, 2025.
In his new role, Gabriel Semelas will be responsible for overseeing Airbus’ operations across all the company’s divisions in the Africa and Middle East region, a key area for Airbus’ strategic development.
He succeeds Mikail Houari, who has played a crucial role in expanding Airbus’ footprint in the region over the past years.
Airbus Welcomes Back Semelas in New Leadership Role
Semelas brings more than 24 years of experience in the aeronautical industry, having held key senior executive roles.
He returns to Airbus from his current position as Chief Commercial and Financial Officer at Eurofighter Jagdflugzeug GmbH in Germany.
Before that, he led the contracts team for Airbus’ Commercial Aircraft business in Africa and the Middle East.
Airbus Backs Semelas to Drive Regional Growth
Wouter Van Wersch, Executive Vice President International at Airbus, said:
“Gabriel’s extensive background in the aeronautical industry, coupled with his proven leadership skills, makes him the ideal candidate to lead Airbus’ operations in Africa and the Middle East.
We are confident that under his leadership, we will continue to strengthen our presence and partnerships in this strategically important region.”
Gabriel Semelas remarked:
“I am honoured to take on this responsibility at such a pivotal time for Airbus in Africa and the Middle East. I look forward to working with our talented teams and partners to drive growth and innovation in this dynamic market.”
