Ex-Zodiac CEO to drive quality at Panasonic

Panasonic Avionics has a new VP of global operations in the shape of Adri Ruiter, the former president and CEO of Zodiac Seats US. Ruiter boasts almost 30 years of experience in the aviation industry, and will be responsible for key global operations activity, including operational strategy, program management, supplier management and global manufacturing to ensure consistent customer delivery.

In a previous role at Zodiac Seats US, Ruiter was instrumental in Project Fusion, a joint seat integration program between Zodiac (then Weber Aircraft LLC) and Panasonic. This integrated seat design ultimately led to the introduction of Panasonic Avionics’ Eco Monitor family designed for the X Series IFE system. In his most recent role at Zodiac, Ruiter was director of restore margins, which involved leading group operational excellence workshops at Zodiac Aerospace sites across North America.

Mark Jennings, Chief Operating Officer, Panasonic Avionics Corporation, said: “We have over 300 airline customers around the world, each with their own sets of requirements for hardware, software and system performance. Adri’s unique experience within the cabin industry will bring a greater focus to Panasonic, ensuring that we will always deliver the best product, on time, with the highest quality and backed by a support process that ensures the best long-term return on their investment.”