Alex Cruz has been appointed as chairman and chief executive of British Airways starting from April 2016, and Steve Gunning is to be BA’s new chief financial officer.

Cruz, who is currently chairman and chief executive of Vueling, will be replacing Keith Williams, who is retiring after 18 years at the airline.

“I would like to thank Keith Williams for all that he has achieved at British Airways,” said Willie Walsh, chief executive of IAG. “It has been a great personal privilege to work with Keith for the last 10 years. Keith is not only British Airways’ executive chairman, he was fundamental to the creation of IAG. IAG is as much his legacy as is his leadership of BA. Under Alex Cruz’s leadership, Vueling has become a dynamic, innovative and cost-effective airline and Alex will bring new experience and insight to British Airways.”

Gunning, IAG Cargo’s chief executive, will be replacing Nick Swift.

“Steve Gunning will return to British Airways to support Alex as chief financial officer,” said Walsh. “He has been highly effective in setting up IAG’s first ever single business unit at IAG Cargo. The business is industry-leading with a ground-breaking operating model and cost focus.”

The new chief executive of IAG Cargo and the new chairman and chief executive of Vueling will be announced at a later date, according to IAG.