Professional Summary
Professional Overview
Max Kownatzki is an accomplished aviation industry executive with extensive experience in strategic leadership, network and partnership management, and driving operational excellence. As the Chief Executive Officer of SunExpress, he is responsible for spearheading the company's growth and innovation initiatives, positioning it as a key player in the European aviation market.
Experience Summary
Current Role
As the Chief Executive Officer of SunExpress since April 2020, Max Kownatzki is responsible for setting the strategic direction of the company and overseeing its day-to-day operations. Under his leadership, SunExpress has continued to expand its route network and strengthen its position as a leading provider of leisure and charter flights in the Mediterranean region.
Career Progression
Prior to his current role, Max served as a Member of the Supervisory Board at Air Dolomiti Spa from 2017 to 2020, where he provided strategic guidance and oversight to the company's management team. He also held the position of Senior Vice President of Network & Partnership Management Hub Airlines at Lufthansa from 2015 to 2020, where he played a key role in shaping the company's network strategy and forging strategic partnerships.
Max co-founded HopAcross, a technology-driven aviation startup, in 2014, serving as the CEO and Chairman of the Advisory Board until 2020. During this time, he led the company's growth and development, leveraging his expertise in aviation strategy and innovation.
Earlier in his career, Max held roles at Jetstar Airways as the Executive Manager of Group Strategy and at Oliver Wyman as a Partner in the Aviation Practice, where he advised leading airlines on strategic and operational initiatives.
Academic Background
Max holds a master's degree in Aviation Management from the International School of Management (ISM), where he also served as a Course Director for the Aviation Masters Program from 2010 to 2012.
Areas of Expertise
- Strategic leadership and vision in the aviation industry
- Network and partnership management
- Operational efficiency and optimization
- Aviation technology and innovation
- Airline management and business development
Professional Impact
During his tenure at Lufthansa, Max played a pivotal role in shaping the company's network strategy, leading to the successful integration of new routes and partnerships. As the co-founder and CEO of HopAcross, he demonstrated his ability to drive innovation and develop technology-driven solutions for the aviation industry.
Conclusion
With his extensive experience, strategic acumen, and industry expertise, Max Kownatzki is well-positioned to lead SunExpress and contribute to the continued growth and success of the European aviation sector.
