Wheels Up CFO & CLO Departures & New Hires

By Bobby Samwell • Wednesday, August 21 15:11 • Permanent Link

Wheels Up Experience Inc. (NYSE: UP) has announced some significant changes in its executive leadership team. Chief Financial Officer Todd Smith and Chief Legal Officer Laura Heltebran will be departing the company, with Smith taking on a new role and Heltebran pursuing other opportunities.

In the wake of these departures, Matthew Knopf will be joining Wheels Up as the new Chief Legal Officer and Secretary, effective September 9. Knopf brings with him extensive experience, having served as Senior Vice President and Deputy General Counsel at Delta Air Lines since 2015. During his tenure at Delta, Knopf played a pivotal leadership role in the completion of significant transactions and key joint venture restructurings.

In the interim, Eric Cabezas, who has been with Wheels Up since 2019, will step in as the acting Chief Financial Officer while the search for Smith's replacement is conducted. Cabezas has previously served as the interim CFO during a period of transition for the company and currently holds the position of Senior Vice President of Finance.

George Mattson, the CEO of Wheels Up, expressed confidence in both Knopf and Cabezas, citing Knopf's deep industry knowledge and Cabezas's instrumental role in securing the company's 2023 capital investment.

Despite the departures of Smith and Heltebran, Wheels Up remains committed to its mission of delivering a premium solution for every customer journey. The company, known for its on-demand private aviation services, global network of safety-vetted charter operators, and strategic partnership with Delta Air Lines, continues to offer a complete global aviation solution with a large and diverse fleet.

As the company navigates these leadership transitions, it aims to maintain its uncompromising commitment to safety and service, offering charter and membership programs, unique commercial travel benefits, cargo, safety and security solutions, and managed services to a wide range of customers and organizations. The market has reacted to these announcements by moving the company's shares -2.9% to a price of $1.83. For the full picture, make sure to review Wheels Up Experience's 8-K report.

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