Abu Dhabi Airports Company (ADAC) announced it has recruited Hong Kong based Hans Bakker to join the company as Commercial Director in April. Brought on board to help direct and drive the growing commercialization agenda at ADAC, he will be responsible for building momentum, optimizing returns and delivering on the policy agenda of the Government of Abu Dhabi.

Commercial Director at Hong Kong Airport Authority since 2000, Hans Bakker has vast experience across all aspects of commercial development including cargo, aviation support businesses, land asset and property development, as well as the retail and advertising business.

Welcoming the appointment, H.E. Khalifa Al Mazrouei, Chairman and Managing Director of ADAC said: “Hans [Bakker] has enjoyed a distinguished career in the aviation business and brings to us a wealth of knowledge and experience as we embark on a determined effort to generate greater returns at our airports. In seeking to maximize returns by providing greater choice for customers and involving new partners, we can improve our offer to passengers and demonstrate our commitment to deliver on the Abu Dhabi Government’s strategy.”

“We are looking at all aspects of our business to seek greater commercial returns and Hans has been hired to bring his skills to the delivery of this priority.”

On his appointment, Bakker said: “I look forward to joining ADAC and contributing to its success and to coming to Abu Dhabi at such an exciting and challenging time in its development as a world class city.”

“It is an exciting time for ADAC, especially as the new Terminal 3 nears completion which will boost capacity at the airport by a further five million passengers per year,” added Bakker.