Gulf Air’s chief Samer Majali has resigned Gulf Air’s chief executive officer Samer Majali has resigned. The company\'s newly appointed board of directors issued a statement in which they confirmed acceptance of Majali\'s resignation, adding that he will remain in his position until the end of 2012.
\"The Gulf Air Board of Directors expressed their thanks to Mr Majali for his contribution to Gulf Air and the strong leadership he has shown over the last three years. Noting in particular the significant improvements made across the airline in the areas of fleet renewal, service enhancement, operational efficiency and on-time performance,\" a statement read.
Majali, a Jordanian national, joined the Bahraini airline in 2009 and was tasked with saving the company from financial collapse. The former CEO of Royal Jordanian airlines was hoping for similar success with Gulf Air, but encountered problems.
There was reportedly a breakdown in relations with the Bahrain government, with suggestions that his ambition and drive did not equate to the feelings of some in the government. Last year, at the Bahrain Air Show, the launch event for Bombardier C-Series was pulled at the last minute.
While those in the industry praised him for his cost-cutting methods, Majali\'s approach was seen by many as ruthless and others were unhappy about the reduction in manpower and routes.
As of yet, there has been no news of a successor at Gulf Air.