The Cathay Group has announced a leadership transition at board level, with Patrick Healy set to step down as Chair of the Board on 13 May 2026 and retire from the Swire Group at the end of the month, bringing to a close a distinguished career spanning more than three decades.
Healy will be succeeded by Guy Bradley, JP, who will assume the role of Chair of the Cathay Group from 13 May 2026. Bradley currently serves as Chairman of Swire Pacific Limited and is a Director of Cathay Pacific Airways Limited, bringing extensive international leadership experience and deep familiarity with the Cathay and Swire organisations.
The Board acknowledged Healy’s pivotal role in guiding the group through one of the most challenging periods in its history. During his six-year tenure as Chair, Cathay navigated the unprecedented disruption of the COVID-19 pandemic, restoring operations to pre-pandemic passenger capacity levels while continuing to expand its global network to more than 100 destinations. The recovery also reinforced Cathay’s position as a key contributor to Hong Kong’s international aviation and air cargo hub.
Commenting on the appointment, Bradley paid tribute to his predecessor’s leadership. “Pat has demonstrated unwavering commitment and leadership throughout his six years as Chair, especially during the pandemic. Under his stewardship, Cathay Pacific reinforced its reputation as one of the world’s leading airlines, while the Cathay Group successfully rebuilt capacity and expanded its global footprint,” he said.
Looking ahead, Bradley emphasised performance, resilience and Hong Kong’s strategic importance as central priorities. “As Chair of the Cathay Group, my focus will be on working closely with the leadership team to enhance the group’s overall performance, while continuing to support Hong Kong—our home city—and strengthening its position as a leading international aviation hub,” he added.
Reflecting on his tenure, Healy described his time at the helm as both challenging and deeply rewarding. “It has been a privilege to chair the Cathay Group for the last six years, working alongside a passionate and committed team who demonstrated remarkable resilience through one of the most demanding periods in our 80-year history,” he said. He also thanked customers for their loyalty and highlighted Cathay’s long-term investment strategy, noting that the group is committing more than HK$100 billion to enhance its customer proposition across all areas of the business.
“These investments, combined with Cathay’s deep roots in Hong Kong and its unique role in connecting the city to the world, will ensure the group remains at the heart of the Hong Kong international aviation hub for decades to come,” Healy added, wishing the organisation continued success under its new leadership.
Bradley brings with him a broad international perspective shaped by nearly four decades with the Swire Group, having joined in 1987. His career has included senior leadership roles across Hong Kong SAR, the Chinese Mainland, Japan, the Middle East and the United States. In addition to his role at Swire Pacific, Bradley will continue to serve as Chairman of John Swire & Sons (H.K.) Limited, Swire Properties Limited and Hong Kong Aircraft Engineering Company Limited, positions that further underscore his deep engagement across aviation, property and industrial sectors.
The appointment marks a new chapter for the Cathay Group as it continues to strengthen its global airline and air cargo operations while reinforcing Hong Kong’s status as one of the world’s most important aviation gateways.
