Radovanović goes on vacation

In a pickle – Srdjan Radovanović

The soon to be replaced CEO of Jat Airways, Srdjan Radovanović, has taken vacation leave in order to prolong his exit date, the B92 biz portal reports. Over the weekend, Serbian media have reported that the Serbian Government will vote to replace Radovanović on Thursday. However, CEO’s of publically owned companies in Serbia cannot be fired while they are on vacation leave, which should give Radovanović more time at the airline’s helm. Similar tactics were used by the previous CEO, Saša Vlaisavljević, who is still part of the company’s management board.

Rumours of who will replace Radovanović have begun with Vladimir Ognjenović, the deputy CEO, being the most likely contender for the top spot. Ognjenović, member of the ruling Democratic Party was part of Saša Vlaisavljević’s disastrous management team which included signing a damaging code share agreement with Montenegro Airlines and claims of corruption. Ognjenović has been at war with the current CEO as the two come from different factions of the Democratic Party.

On Sunday, a spokesperson from the Serbian Government reiterated the government’s stance on Jat saying that the country needs a national carrier and that it will do all in its power to transform Jat into a successful company. Over the weekend, the President of the airline’s pilot union resigned.

Meanwhile, away from management wrangling, Jat will begin its announced two weekly service from Portorož to Rome on December 9. Flights, which are to be operated by the ATR72, will originate in Belgrade. It should be noted that the flights will not substitute the existing nonstop service between the Serbian and Italian capitals. Flight details can be found on the right hand side in the new route launches section.