In Conversation with Riad Asmat, AirAsia's New CEO

In conversation with Riad Asmat, AirAsia's New CEO

So we’re getting a new CEO! His name is Riad Asmat and he will be taking over the mantle from Aireen Omar who has been promoted to Deputy Group CEO of Digital Transformation & Corporate Services.

I quickly Googled him as Tony made the announcement to get to know more of our new CEO. Having said that, I did manage to sit down with Riad to have a quick chat at RedQ.

How would you describe your management style?

I am a people person and I believe there should always be a constant flow of communication between all parties which is why my door is always open. Besides that, I also believe in relying on the strength of my colleagues and employees. The key in creating a successful organization is being able to support them by providing the necessary tools and skills for them to succeed. There's no doubt that this culture is already part of AirAsia's DNA and I only wish continue building on the legacy.

Why did you say yes to the CEO post?

It was an easy decision. I was previously attached to Caterham Automotive in Britain so in a way, I was already part of the AirAsia family. And it’s also good that I know most of the people here as this will help to make for a smooth transition.

What potential challenges do you foresee in 2018?

The aviation industry is still growing especially in Asia so I have a positive outlook for what lies ahead for 2018. As long as we continue to innovate as a company, our various stakeholders will look toward AirAsia with confidence.

We understand that you’re a cycling enthusiast from your Instagram page (ahem, stalker alert). How does that reflect in your professional life?

Yes, I enjoy the outdoors tremendously and cycling is my main passion. And I will definitely be bringing my bike to cycle around the area here (RedQ). I do see a lot of similarities between cycling and running a business. For example, discipline is an important trait to have when you are cycling and even more so in the business world. As a cyclist you have to be able to know when to slow down, speed up and stop, again, qualities that can be carried forward into the corporate world.

Is there anything you would like to say to the Allstars before officially joining on 10th January 2018?

As we usher in 2018, I would like to wish everyone a wonderful New Year and I look forward to meeting and working with the family. It’s going to be an exciting year ahead and I am honoured to be able to call myself an Allstar as well.

Follow Riad's cycling adventures (mostly) on Instagram and for his daily musings head over to his Twitter page.