Air Canada confirmed today that Anko van der Werff has been chosen as its next president and chief executive officer and will join the carrier's board of directors. The appointment is scheduled to take effect by the end of January 2027.
Van der Werff currently serves as president and chief executive officer at Scandinavian Airlines. He will take over from Michael Rousseau, who announced his intention to retire after 19 years with the airline.
Vagn Sørensen, chair of Air Canada’s board, said the selection followed a comprehensive global search and that the board was impressed by the caliber of experienced executives who expressed interest. Sørensen emphasized van der Werff’s 25 years of international experience in the aviation industry, noting executive roles held at Scandinavian Airlines, Avianca Group, Aeroméxico, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, and Qatar Airways.
In remarks included with the announcement, van der Werff described it as an honor to be selected to lead the Canadian carrier as it advances its strategy and prepares for the future. He said he is looking forward to collaborating with Air Canada’s executive team and employees to meet commitments to shareholders and customers.
The company said the global search evaluated candidates against several performance criteria, among them the ability to communicate in French.
Rousseau’s planned retirement will become effective on August 31, 2026. The company said he will remain available as needed during the transition period. Once Rousseau departs, Air Canada’s executive committee will report directly to the board of directors.
Van der Werff’s academic credentials include a master’s degree in law from Leiden University and completion of executive studies at Harvard Business School. A native of the Netherlands, he speaks Dutch, English, and French, and has learned Spanish, Italian, and Swedish over the course of his international career.
Sector implications
- Airlines and broader travel industry - leadership change at a major carrier could influence strategic and operational priorities.
- Consumer and investor sectors - commitments to shareholders and customers were highlighted as priorities for the incoming CEO.
Context and next steps
The company’s transition plan includes a multi-month handover between Rousseau’s effective retirement date and van der Werff’s start on the board and as CEO. The executive committee will report to the board after Rousseau leaves, and Rousseau will remain available during the handover period to support continuity.