Italian flag carrier Alitalia has named Silvano Cassano as CEO of ‘new Atilalia’, which will become effective after it closes a major investment deal with Abu-Dhabi-based carrier Etihad Airways.

Cassano has more than 35 years of experience in senior management roles across a number of industries. He has also served as chairman and CEO of Italian shipping company Grandi Navi Veloci, CEO of global fashion brand Benetton Group, CEO of Fiat Auto Financial and Consumer Services, and VP-European Operations at Hertz Europe.

The deal between Etihad Airways and Alitalia came to fruition 8 August 2014 in a transaction worth US$2.35 billion, which saw Etihad take a 49 per cent stake in Alitalia. The transaction is due to be completed 31 December 2014.