VietJet, the Vietnamese low-cost airline, has appointed Thi Phuong Thao as the new Chairwoman of the Board of Directors. Thao, also known as Nguyen Thi Phuong Thao, is one of the country’s richest women and is the founder and CEO of VietJet. She replaces Nguyen Duc Tam, who resigned from the position earlier this year.
Thao has been instrumental in the growth of VietJet since its founding in 2007. The airline has grown rapidly over the past decade, and Thao has been recognized for her business acumen and leadership skills. VietJet currently operates over 100 routes across Asia, and the company has been expanding into new markets in recent years, including Japan, South Korea, and India.
Thao’s appointment comes at a critical time for VietJet, as the airline navigates the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. Like many airlines around the world, VietJet has been hit hard by the pandemic, with passenger numbers plummeting due to travel restrictions and border closures. However, the airline has been taking steps to adapt to the new reality, including launching cargo flights and expanding its domestic network.
Thao has also been a vocal advocate for the aviation industry in Vietnam, calling for the government to provide more support to help airlines weather the crisis. She has also been involved in philanthropic efforts, including launching a program to donate over 1 million masks to Vietnamese citizens in the early stages of the pandemic.
Thao’s appointment has been well-received by the aviation industry in Vietnam and beyond. Some have praised her for her entrepreneurial spirit and leadership qualities, while others have highlighted her role as a trailblazer for women in business. “Thao is a symbol of a generation of successful Vietnamese businesswomen,” said Vietnam’s Minister of Finance Dinh Tien Dung in a statement. “She has brought a new style of leadership to the aviation industry in Vietnam and has opened up new opportunities for women in business.”
Thao’s appointment also comes amid a broader push for gender diversity in the business world. Women remain underrepresented in leadership positions across many industries, including aviation. However, there is growing recognition of the benefits of gender diversity, including improved financial performance and greater innovation. VietJet’s move to appoint a woman to its top leadership role is seen as a positive step in this direction.
Overall, Thi Phuong Thao’s appointment as Chairwoman of the Board of Directors of VietJet highlights the airline’s commitment to continued growth and innovation, despite the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. It also signals a broader push for greater gender diversity in the aviation industry and beyond. With Thao’s leadership and vision, VietJet looks set to continue to be a major player in the Asian aviation market in the years to come.