John Slosar will retire as chairman of Cathay Pacific at the next board meeting on 6 November, to be succeeded by Patrick Healy.

Healy joined the Swire Group in 1988 and spent 14 years with the China beverages division followed by four years as CEO of HAECO Xiamen.

He is managing director of Swire Coca-Cola and director of John Swire & Sons, and a non-executive director of Swire Properties.

Slosar says being chairman was a great privilege, and thanked the team for their support and commitment during his time.

He says: “Pat is a strong and experienced executive, having successfully led a number of different Swire businesses. He is creative and customer-focused, and I am sure he will lead Cathay Pacific to new heights.”

Healy says: “Cathay Pacific has been Hong Kong’s home carrier for over seven decades. Despite current challenges, I am confident in the future of Hong Kong and Cathay Pacific will remain fully committed to this great city as Asia’s key aviation hub.”