September often brings a sense of change and new beginnings, especially in the world of EU sustainable transport policy. If you’ve ever sent an email only to receive an out-of-office reply announcing a colleague’s departure, you’re not alone. We’ve all been there, and that’s why we’re here to help you navigate this period of transition. In this article, we highlight some of the key moves among transport professionals, offering a glimpse into the exciting shifts and new opportunities that are shaping the future of sustainable mobility.
A4E Heavyweight Steps Down
After an impactful eight-year tenure at Airlines for Europe (A4E), Laurent Donceel, the highly regarded Deputy Managing Director, has announced his departure. In a LinkedIn post, Donceel reflected on his journey, highlighting milestones such as the launch of A4E, the COVID crisis, and the Destination2050 initiative. Donceel will now take up the role of Director of Transport, Industrial Policy, & Sustainability at Hydrogen Europe.
New Appointments at Airlines for Europe
On September 3rd, A4E introduced Davide Maistro as the new Policy Director and Beatrice Pepe as the Communications Officer. Maistro, with a background in advising transport and technology sectors, and Pepe, with experience in Brussels-based trade associations, join the team under Managing Director Ourania Georgoutsakou. Their appointments mark a new chapter in A4E’s advocacy efforts at a time when the aviation sector is under intense climate scrutiny.
ACEA’s Communication Director Moves on as French Dispatch Editor Joins the Team
Cara McLauchlin, the Communication Director of the European Automobile Manufacturer’s Association (ACEA), has announced her departure. In a heartfelt LinkedIn post, she expressed gratitude to her colleagues for their support. One of her successors, Julien Hoez, who runs the hugely popular French and global policy newsletter called the French Dispatch, will tke up the role of Media Relations Manager, bringing his expertise in policy communication to ACEA.
Volvo’s Leadership Transition
Frederique Biston, Volvo Group’s Head of EU Representation, is relocating to Gothenburg for a new role as Senior Policy Advisor. After nearly three decades with Volvo in Brussels, Biston’s move signifies a shift in the company’s EU affairs operations, with her successor to be announced soon.
AVERE Welcomes New Secretary General
Chris Heron has been appointed as the new Secretary General of AVERE, the European Association for Electromobility. With over a decade of experience in EU trade associations, Heron succeeds Philippe Vangeel, bringing fresh perspectives to the organisation’s leadership.
Bertrand Deprez Transitions to GE Vernova
After 13 years with Schneider Electric, a leader in digital automation and energy management, Bertrand Deprez has announced his move to GE Vernova. During his tenure at Schneider, Deprez played a significant role in EU Affairs. He will now lead Policy and Government Affairs at US energy giant GE Vernova, a critical position as global energy production demands rise and the world closely watches the US election outcomes.
RECHARGE Appoints New Director General
RECHARGE, the European Association of the Advanced Rechargeable & Lithium Batteries Value Chain, has named Ilka von Dalwigk as its new Director General. Von Dalwigk’s experience at EIT InnoEnergy, where she supported the European Batteries Alliance (EBA), positions her well for this role. She will face challenges such as fluctuating EV battery demand and increasing trade tensions between China, a key battery producer, and Western countries.
Do you have a new sustainable transport role? If so, let us know!
Navigating the ever-changing landscape of EU sustainable transport policy is both exciting and challenging. If you’re making a career move or stepping into a new role, we’d love to hear from you. Share your journey with us by emailing us (hello[at]ibexpub.media) or tagging us on LinkedIn. Your experiences and insights are not just important to us—they’re a vital part of the community’s collective story.
