British Airways’ finance chief John Rishton has quit the airline just a week before Willie Walsh takes over as chief executive from Rod Eddington.
He will be replaced by group treasurer and head of taxation Keith Williams.
Rishton, who, along with Eddington, is credited with turning round the fortunes of BA, will leave at the month to join Ditch retailer Ahold.
A BA spokeswoman, quoted in The Guardian, denied suggestions Rishton resigned after being overlooked for the top role at BA.
“His move is absolutely not a reflection that he is not chief executive,” the spokeswoman is reported to have said. “He is joining a much bigger company based overseas. This is a career move for him.”
Report by Steve Jones
