Ursula Silling - Chief Executive Officer

Professional Overview

Ursula Silling is a seasoned executive with over 30 years of experience in the aviation and travel industries. As the Chief Executive Officer of Branchspace and the Founder and CEO of XXL Solutions GmbH, she brings a wealth of expertise in driving innovation, leading strategic initiatives, and overseeing commercial operations.

Experience Summary

Current Roles

Chief Executive Officer, Branchspace (2021-Present)

Responsible for the overall strategic direction and operational management of Branchspace, a leading technology solutions provider for the aviation and travel sectors.

Spearheading the company's transformation and growth, focusing on the development and implementation of cutting-edge digital solutions to address the evolving needs of the industry.

Fostering a culture of innovation and collaboration to drive sustainable success and capitalize on emerging market opportunities.

Founder and CEO, XXL Solutions GmbH (2010-Present)

Established and leads XXL Solutions, a pioneering consulting firm that specializes in driving innovation and digital transformation within the aviation and travel industries.

Advises global clients on strategic initiatives, operational optimization, and the integration of innovative technologies to enhance efficiency and competitiveness.

Actively contributes to industry thought leadership through speaking engagements, publications, and industry associations.

Visiting Lecturer, City, University of London (2018-Present)

Sharing her extensive industry expertise with the next generation of aviation and travel professionals as a Visiting Lecturer at the prestigious City, University of London.

Inspiring and guiding students in the areas of commercial strategy, digital transformation, and leadership within the dynamic travel and aviation sectors.

Career Progression

Prior to her current roles, Ursula Silling held various senior leadership positions, including:

Chief Commercial Officer at Kenya Airways (2019-2020)

Founder and Managing Director at think future club (2012-2020)

Programme Director PSS Migration at Aer Lingus (2010-2012)

Chief Commercial Officer at Aerosvit Ukrainian Airlines (2009-2010)

Executive Vice President of Commercial at Brussels Airlines (2005-2008)

Commercial Director at HLX/TUI Group (2003-2005)

Director of Account Management at Lufthansa Systems (2001-2003)

Commercial Director at Deutsche BA/British Airways Group (1994-2001)

Managing Director at Optimal Reisen (1991-1994)

Throughout her career, Ursula has demonstrated a proven track record of driving operational excellence, spearheading innovative initiatives, and delivering measurable results for her clients and organizations.

Academic Background

Ursula Silling holds a degree in Business Administration and Economics from a leading European university, further strengthening her comprehensive understanding of the aviation and travel industries.

Areas of Expertise

Strategic leadership and business transformation

Commercial and operational optimization

Digital innovation and technology integration

Stakeholder management and cross-functional collaboration

Aviation and travel industry expertise

Thought leadership and industry advocacy

Professional Impact

Ursula Silling is recognized as a visionary leader and industry influencer. Her contributions include:

Pioneering the "think future club" initiative, which brought together aviation and travel stakeholders to drive innovation and address industry challenges.

Spearheading the successful migration of Aer Lingus' passenger service system, enhancing the airline's operational efficiency and customer experience.

Driving the commercial strategy and growth of various leading airlines, including Brussels Airlines and Aerosvit Ukrainian Airlines.

Serving as a trusted advisor to global clients, guiding them through digital transformation and the integration of cutting-edge technologies.

Sharing her expertise as a Visiting Lecturer, inspiring the next generation of aviation and travel professionals.

Conclusion

Ursula Silling's extensive experience, strategic vision, and industry-leading expertise make her a valuable asset in the aviation and travel sectors. As she continues to shape the future of Branchspace and her consulting firm, XXL Solutions GmbH, Ursula remains committed to driving innovation, fostering collaboration, and delivering sustainable success for her clients and the industry as a whole.