Lavi Halevi: A New Era for El Al
Lavi Halevi, aged 55, currently the CEO of the credit card company Cal, is emerging as the leading candidate to succeed Dina Ben Tal Genesia as CEO of El Al, Israel’s flagship airline. This decision comes from El Al’s owner, Koni Rosenberg, who aims to bring in a CEO with a strong financial background, diverging from the traditional path of hiring from the aviation or marketing sectors.
Background and Credentials
The groundwork for Halevi’s candidacy was laid recently when a significant transaction saw the ownership of Cal transition from Discount Bank to Union Group, owned by George Horesh, and Harel Insurance, for a staggering 3.75 billion shekels. Halevi has a solid reputation, having spent seven years as the CEO of Cal and previously serving as a vice president at Discount Bank. His tenure at Cal was marked by impressive growth and profitability, raising the company’s competitive stance against rivals like Isracard and Max.
Previous Collaboration with El Al
El Al shares a prior working relationship with Halevi through a collaboration with Cal’s subsidiary, Diners, which issues the Fly-Card credit card. This card offers enticing benefits for El Al’s Frequent Flyer program members, showcasing a strategic partnership that has been mutually beneficial. Following the sale of Cal, El Al stands to gain around 166 million shekels from Discount Bank due to an option held in Cal shares, further solidifying the financial ties between the two companies.
Challenges Ahead for El Al
As Halevi transitions into the role of CEO at El Al, he will face numerous challenges. The airline experienced a period of dominance during the recent conflict, acquiring a temporary monopoly in the skies. However, as international airlines gradually resume flights to Israel, El Al must navigate increased competition, which may erode the record profits the airline enjoyed during those exclusive periods.
Financial Acumen in a Competitive Landscape
Halevi’s experience in the finance sector will be crucial as El Al braces for a heightened competitive landscape. The airline needs to strategize effectively to maintain its market share while ensuring customer satisfaction amid returning competitors. The emphasis on financial management, cost reduction, and revenue generation will be vital in this transitional phase for the airline.
Conclusion: A New Vision for El Al
With Lavi Halevi potentially at the helm, El Al is poised for a significant shift. His financial expertise and previous successes in enhancing Cal’s status provide a promising outlook. However, it will be essential for Halevi to balance operational effectiveness with customer-centric services to navigate the post-conflict aviation industry effectively. As the airline prepares for this new chapter, stakeholders and customers alike will be eager to see how Halevi’s leadership will shape the future of El Al.
