Lotta Sandsgaard, an avid leisure pilot with extensive leadership experience in municipal administration and the aviation industry, is set to take on the role of CEO at Aarhus Airport. Her appointment comes as part of the airport’s growth strategy, which aims to increase passenger numbers to 1.5 million by the end of 2029. The position attracted a broad and competitive pool of candidates, and the chairman of the board is thrilled that such a competent profile has been secured for the airport. With nearly 20 years of solid management experience in the public sector and a deep understanding of the aviation industry, Lotta Sandsgaard is well-suited to lead the complex organization.
“We have been searching for an experienced leader with the right skills to engage with various professional groups and stakeholders in a complex company. Lotta brings a strong vision for the future combined with an evident drive to deliver results. Her profound insight into and passionate interest in aviation is a dream scenario we could not have anticipated. The board confidently entrusts the helm to Lotta, and we are looking forward to our collaboration,” says Lars Dige Knudsen, chairman of the board at Aarhus Airport.
Currently serving as the technical and environmental director in Silkeborg Municipality, Lotta Sandsgaard has previously held managerial positions as the director of environment and culture in Norddjurs Municipality and leadership roles in the technical and environmental departments of both Norddjurs Municipality and Herning Municipality. She also serves as the chairman of the board at Herning Airport S/I. Furthermore, Lotta holds a commercial pilot license and flight instructor certification and has been associated with Aarhus Airport for several years.
“The airport has always provided outstanding service, whether I have visited as a guest in the terminal or as a pilot in the harbor office. I am excited to maintain and develop the experience of high-quality service for everyone, alongside the many talented and dedicated employees and leaders at Aarhus Airport,” says Lotta Sandsgaard.
“My passion for aviation will be a significant driving force in my new role as CEO of Aarhus Airport. However, it is the managerial tools and my technical and environmental experience that I bring to the table, which will contribute to evolving the airport’s culture and establishing a solid foundation for growth. Additionally, I will draw on my years of experience in developing cities, infrastructure facilities, and organizations while ensuring smooth operations,” Lotta Sandsgaard adds.
Originally from Northern Jutland, Lotta Sandsgaard now resides near Grenaa with her husband Claus. In their limited free time, the couple often takes to the skies, with Lotta firmly in control of the cockpit of her own small aircraft, a Rockwell Commander 114b, based at Aarhus Airport.
Lotta Sandsgaard will assume her role as the new CEO of Aarhus Airport on April 1, 2023.