Atlas Air Worldwide appoints Emma Woodthorpe as chief people officer

US-based outsourced aircraft and aviation operating services provider Atlas Air Worldwide has appointed Emma Woodthorpe as chief people officer, with Woodthorpe joining the company's executive leadership team to lead its global talent and culture agenda.

According to Aviation Business News, Woodthorpe will oversee talent acquisition, leadership development, organisational effectiveness, total rewards, employee engagement and relations, HR operations and people technology. She brings more than 25 years of experience building high-performing organisations and leading transformation across global enterprises.

Woodthorpe said she was joining at a pivotal moment in Atlas Air's journey. "The company has built strong momentum, and we will build on this foundation to support our global workforce and position the business for long-term success," she said. "People and culture are critical enablers of Atlas' continued growth, and I look forward to working with the team to advance the company's people agenda."

Michael Steen, chief executive of Atlas Air Worldwide, said Woodthorpe had demonstrated success in strengthening leadership capability and increasing employee engagement. "Emma has demonstrated success in strengthening leadership capability, increasing employee engagement, embedding clear values and behaviours, and creating more connected and accountable organisations capabilities that directly support our ambition to live a thriving culture at Atlas," he said.

Atlas Air Worldwide is a leading provider of outsourced aircraft and aviation operating solutions, offering cargo, charter and dry leasing services to airlines, freight carriers and the US military across an extensive global network.

The appointment comes as aviation operators across the industry continue to invest in workforce development and organisational capability, with talent retention and culture remaining key priorities for carriers and service providers managing large, geographically dispersed workforces.

Discover the full appointment details and Atlas Air Worldwide's people strategy in the full report.