Glasgow Airport managing director Amanda McMillan scoops SCDI International Award
12 November 2012
Glasgow Airport's managing director Amanda McMillan has been recognised for her achievements in international markets at the Scottish Council for Development and Industry International Awards.
Scotland’s International Awards, which were held in the world-class Emirates Arena, home of the 2014 Commonwealth Games, recognise the global ambitions and successes of Scotland's leading internationally-focussed companies, showcasing Scotland as an outward looking, ambitious and enterprising nation.
The Glasgow: Scotland with style Award for Outstanding Contribution to Glasgow's Tourism Economy was presented to Glasgow Airport Managing Director Amanda McMillan by former US Secretary of State, Madeleine Albright, in recognition of her achievements and contribution to increasing tourism into Scotland and enhancing Scotland’s reputation in international markets.
The success and achievements of Glasgow Airport have been spearheaded by her leadership and in recognition of her role in driving the airport forward she was presented with the award.
Glasgow Airport is one of the largest private sector employers in the region supporting 4,500 jobs and over 7,300 jobs across Scotland as a whole.
In 2011 the airport carried approximately seven million passengers, representing an increase of 5.1% compared to the previous year, and despite the challenging economic climate. The airport has also succeeded in securing a host of new routes and services since January 2011. This includes the 19 destinations served by Jet2.com and Emirates introducing a second daily service to Dubai.
The second daily Emirates service is of vital economic importance, as not only has it strengthened Glasgow Airport’s long haul connectivity, it will play a crucial role in allowing companies from across Scotland to access and trade with markets such as China, south-east Asia and India.
The airport continues to invest in upgrading its facilities, announcing details in January of a programme which has seen £9 million spent on capital projects this year alone.
Councillor Gordon Matheson, Leader of Glasgow City Council and Chair of Glasgow City Marketing Bureau, said: “Glasgow Airport is of strategic importance to the city and the connectivity provided by the airport is a major factor in the success of the West of Scotland economy. The growth of direct flights to Glasgow continues to open up new markets for short breaks to the city while increased access is a key driver in attracting greater numbers of delegates to the conferences that meet here.
“Glasgow City Council and Glasgow City Marketing Bureau – through the management of the Council’s Air Route Development Fund – enjoy a close working relationship with Amanda and her team, and this award recognises Amanda’s inspirational leadership and the significant contribution that she makes in helping to grow and shape Glasgow’s tourism economy.
“Glasgow Airport has achieved a great deal of success recently; growing passenger numbers, securing new routes, investing heavily in enhancing facilities and launching the first customer charter of any airport in the UK. It came as no surprise that Glasgow was this year named Scottish Airport of the Year at the Scottish Transport Awards, which is testament to Amanda’s commitment and stewardship over the past 18 months.”
Former US Secretary of State, Madeleine Albright delivered the keynote speech to more than 700 senior guests, just three days after the US elections. Dr Albright shared her vision on current global issues, focusing on leadership and how Scotland can achieve its international ambitions and inspire a generation of young people.
