Delhi Duty Free Services Chief Executive Officer Philip Eckles is to step down at the end of the year.

Eckles, will return to England after several years overseas to spend time with his family and pursue other opportunities.

After assuming the role in August 2018, Eckles was recognised for his achievements and leadership skills across 30 years in the industry at last year’s Retail Excellence and Corporate Governance Awards hosted by the Asia Africa GCC Retail & Shopping Centre Congress.

Ray Hernan, Aer Rianta International Chief Executive commented: “We would like to thank Philip for his outstanding contribution in growing the Delhi Duty Free business over the past number of years.

“Philip has worked tirelessly with great vision, consistently delivering compelling results. We look forward to continuing to work closely with Philip over the remainder of his term and we wish him every success with his future endeavours.”

POPULAR AND RESPECTED FIGURE

A popular and highly respected industry figure, Eckles had held many senior positions with Aer Rianta International (ARI) between 1993 and 2018. These include Regional Manager, ARI North America, CEO, ARI Middle East and Global Implementation Director.

GBS Raju, Chairman, Delhi Duty Free commented: “Philip brought great leadership to Delhi Duty Free which is reflected in the heightened success which the company has experienced during his tenure. Philip’s tremendous knowledge and experience of fundamental retailing principles has significantly enhanced our customer proposition and positions Delhi Duty Free well as we look to the future and emerge from this difficult Covid-19 period.

“We extend our very best wishes to Philip as he embarks on his next chapter.”

Commenting on his planned departure, Eckles said: “Working with the team at Delhi Duty Free has been a great experience and together we have built one of the leading duty free operations in the region. Delivering an outstanding shopping experience for customers is core to our business and that is reflected in the record sales success which we have enjoyed over the last number of years.”

He added: “I joined this industry in 1989 and have had a fantastic 31 years with the opportunity to work with great characters throughout the world.  I will take some wonderful memories home with me.  I would like to thank the Chairman and Board of Directors at Delhi Duty Free for the opportunity to lead a world-class team here in Delhi, that I know will continue to go from strength to strength.”