KLM Operations Director Switches to British Airways

René de Groot is leaving KLM as operational director. He will resign from his position on 15 July, he informed the Supervisory Board. After CEO Pieter Elbers, De Groot is the second director to close the door at KLM this month.

De Groot leaves for competitor British Airways, where he will also become an operational director.

De Groot had been employed by KLM since 1990, where he was also a pilot. He was appointed director of operations in 2014 and also joined the board a year later. He was appointed for a new term in 2019. It actually expired in 2023.

De Groot says in a farewell statement that after 32 years it is time to spread our wings. “I realize that my departure comes at a time of turmoil for KLM, but I am leaving the company in the knowledge that the road to recovery has been set and the organization will be able to meet these challenges despite the ongoing challenges.”

De Groot’s departure comes shortly after KLM boss Elbers left the company. Elbers resigned on 1 July. After consultation, he was no longer going for a third term with the company. Elbers will be succeeded at KLM by NS top woman Marjan Rintel and will lead Indian airline IndiGo from 1 October.