Jet firm creates 40 Cambridge jobs
ExecuJet Europe is to relocate a key operation to Cambridge Airport from Zurich and bring a number of new jobs in the process.
The company recently won a five-year, exclusive contract to run Cambridge Airport’s FBO (fixed-base operator) service and has wasted no time in ramping up its activities in the UK.The business aviation specialist plans to relocate its Aircraft Operations Department from Switzerland to Cambridge during the second quarter of 2012, while, at the same time, retaining resources at its Zurich HQ to run its Swiss AOC.
Staffing in the UK will increase to a headcount of about 40 by year-end for the office staff, which will complement approximately 40 UK-based crew. Extensive training is ongoing for more than six months to ensure a smooth transition to the new team in the UK.
ExecuJet has offered some employees whose positions have been made redundant in Zurich the opportunity to join the company’s UK office in Cambridge.
Cedric Migeon, managing director ExecuJet in Europe said: “We recognise the value and flexibility of this sizeable new facility in the UK, which has great potential to help develop and strengthen our European business further.
“Business aviation in the UK has traditionally been a very important market especially in terms of medium size and large business aircraft registered, generating over 30 per cent of business aviation employment in the EU.
“Bolstering our presence in the UK is a logical next step for us. In striving to keep our business ahead of the game, we must take full advantage of opportunities available, while keeping a firm eye on the current economic situation in Europe.
“In reducing some of our costs and using the excellent resources we have in Cambridge, we will be gaining a competitive advantage in the market.”
Some positions will be moved from Zurich to Cambridge, but the company’s European Headquarters, as well as ExecuJet Aviation Group’s Headquarters will remain in Zurich. The move will have no effect on the Swiss AOC the company holds.
Airport director, Archie Garden, said: “Cambridge Airport is excited that ExecuJet has decided to expand its presence here. We applaud them for their foresight in recognising what we are building up here at the airport.”
