Chapman Freeborn, the global air charter specialist and part of Avia Solutions Group, has appointed Marcel Kolb as Vice President Government & Humanitarian Europe.
Kolb brings extensive experience to his new position, comprising 12 years in the military and almost four at DB Schenker – 13 years of which were spent in logistics and related functions. He also holds a Master’s degree in Economics and Organisational Science, obtained in Munich and Toulouse.
In his role of Transport Officer in the German Air Force, Kolb was part of a NATO mission in Afghanistan, after which he became Vice President Global Defense Business Development at DB Schenker. This role provided Kolb with the responsibility of coordinating charter operations for the military, including for humanitarian projects.
In his new position of VP Government & Humanitarian Europe, Kolb will be responsible for the ongoing development of the humanitarian vertical, developing strategies to create unique selling points and establishing and implementing processes to optimise internal and external potential.
Kolb explains, “My experience in logistics, civilian freight forwarding, and public procurement has afforded me valuable insights into the military and defense industry, which I feel will be extremely beneficial when applied to my new role at Chapman Freeborn.
“By working closely with the European Government & Humanitarian vertical team, I want to establish Chapman Freeborn as the supplier of choice for humanitarian, governmental, military and defense actors in air transport – for both cargo and passenger transport”, Kolb adds.
Kolb has worked with Chapman Freeborn in recent years and is now excited to be part of the team himself; bringing his skills and experience onboard to contribute to the company’s ambitious growth strategy.
He says, “I already know parts of the company and some of my colleagues, so my focus is now on getting to know the whole team. I know from the cooperation I have had with the company over the past few years that there is an incredible amount of expertise, heart and soul at Chapman Freeborn. I am convinced that it is this authenticity, sincerity and professionalism that makes us a successful team and company.”
Kolb will report into Reto Hunziker, President – Europe at Chapman Freeborn. Hunziker says, “I am very happy to have Marcel in the team. With his help we will approach the humanitarian government vertical in a way that ensures we offer the best value and support to our customers and the EU markets. He is a perfect fit for our growing sales and commercial-focused team in Europe.”
Outside of work, Kolb enjoys spending time with his family and friends. He is also a keen football player and has recently taken up golf.
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