Fiji Airways chief executive Stefan Pichler says the airline is looking for a CEO for succession.

Pichler made the comment as the airline confirmed his imminent resignation to take up a new appointment as CEO of Air Berlin in Germany.

“I will make sure that I have somebody who is able to motivate the team, is a team player, who interacts with our staff because that is what we need to do because that is the secret of success if you want to have a change in culture. We have to make sure whoever comes here follows suit.”

Pichler will begin work with Air Berlin in February next year.

Meanwhile Civil Aviation Minister Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum says they regret Stefan’s departure but they are extremely confident that the team at Fiji Airways will rise to this situation and continue full speed ahead on their path to success.

He says under Stefan’s leadership, Fiji Airways has put in place accountable and transparent processes and management systems which are crucial for the next stage of the airline’s growth.

Pichler will remain on the Board.

The Tourism Ministry will also have to look for a new Chairman for Tourism Fiji when Pichler leaves.