MHI Vestas chief executive Philippe Kavafyan has been elected chair of trade body WindEurope for the next 18 months by the group's board of directors.

Kavafyan (pictured), who has been CEO of MHI Vestas since April 2018, takes over the chair role from Vattenfall senior vice president of business area wind Gunnar Groebler.

Kavafyan said: “The European wind industry will play a central role to address two major challenges we are facing: the economic crisis caused by the Covid-19 health crisis, and a fair transition to a sustainable energy system.

“As wind power is turning mainstream, as an industry, we have a responsibility to ensure an inclusive path to a decarbonised future.

“The wind expertise, the skills, the supply chain are unique in Europe. With the renewed ambition of the economic recovery plans, they will be ready to navigate the impending crisis.

“I am honoured to be elected by my peers to represent the full value chain of wind energy in Europe, a successful industry contributing, with jobs and innovation, to a recognised leadership in the world.”

WindEurope chief executive Giles Dickson said: “Through his exceptional work at MHI Vestas, Philippe Kavafyan has shown his vision for the energy transition – and delivered on it.

“He’s made MHI Vestas a leading player in offshore wind in Europe and around the world. We’re delighted to welcome such an experienced leader as our new chair.

“His extensive knowledge of European energy will help shape the next steps on wind energy’s path to become Europe’s leading source of electricity.”