Greenland Airports CEO Jens Lauridsen to Depart Following Ilulissat Airport Opening
Greenland Airports has announced that CEO Jens Lauridsen will step down at the end of October, coinciding with the inauguration of Ilulissat Airport.
Reflecting on his tenure, Lauridsen shared, “My mission from the outset was to oversee the development and commissioning of three new airports. Now, as that task nears completion, I can genuinely start contemplating my next steps.”
Since taking the helm in October 2020, Lauridsen has been instrumental in significant airport construction projects throughout Greenland. “It has been an extraordinary experience and a tremendous honor to lead the establishment of new airports across the region,” he remarked. “When we began, we faced mountains and rocks. Today, we have modern airports in Nuuk and Qaqortoq, and soon, Ilulissat Airport will open as well. This achievement is a testament to the hard work of our talented employees and business partners, who deserve the highest praise.”
As Greenland Airports begins the search for a new managing director, Lauridsen will remain available for support during the transition period post-departure.
Jens Wittrup Willumsen, chairman of the board, commended Lauridsen for his contributions: “Jens Lauridsen has been pivotal in bringing to life one of the most large-scale, complex, and ambitious infrastructure projects in Greenland’s history. Constructing new airports is a rare endeavor, and doing so under Arctic conditions adds an incredible layer of complexity.”
The construction of new airports in Nuuk, Qaqortoq, and soon, Ilulissat, marks the most significant infrastructure projects ever undertaken in the region. Challenges have arisen throughout the process, particularly highlighted during the Nuuk airport’s opening due to security concerns. Qaqortoq Airport recently opened its doors, with anticipation building for the forthcoming Ilulissat Airport launch in October.