Chapman Freeborn nabs Amazon Air's Gerasimova for CEO role

Charter broker Chapman Freeborn has appointed Amazon Air Europe's Saska Gerasimova as the new group chief executive.

Gerasimova takes over from Eric Erbacher who moves to a new role as chair of the Chapman Freeborn Holdings board of directors.

Gerasimova brings a “broad range of experience" that spans aviation leasing, airfreight, logistics, and fleet management.

She joins from the position of senior supply chain manager at Amazon Air Europe and has also worked as fleet director and leasing manager at Smartwings Group.

"This leadership transition marks a transformative milestone for Chapman Freeborn," the charter firm said in a press release. "It reflects the company’s commitment to bold renewal, strategic clarity, and global impact.

"By appointing a newchief executive, Chapman Freeborn embraces fresh perspectives, empowers its teams, and reinforces its long-term vision - ensuring the organisation remains agile, customer-focused, and ready for the future of aviation."

Gerasimova added: "Achieving our aims will require a clear focus on customers, strategic delivery, and market presence. I look forward to building close, trust-based relationships with our clients, and to supporting the team in our ongoing development while facilitating strong connections across our organisation.

"I will be travelling regularly to our regional hubs to meet with our experienced professionals and gain a deep understanding of local operations in each of our locations.”

Erbacher has served as group chief executive for more than five years and has overseen "a period of ongoing development and diversification".

“In my new role, I look forward to having a greater capacity for focusing on customer engagement, closing material deals, and driving our long-term strategy," he said.

Earlier this year, Chapman Freeborn announced that it had restructured its team in Europe to better manage growth in traditional and new markets.