Irina Petrov has been appointed acting secretary general of GVF, the global association of the entire satellite industry ecosystem, effective 24 May.
Currently GVF’s VP for marketing & membership, she will replace Washington-based David Meltzer, who has held the role since 2018 and will be stepping down.
Commenting on the appointment, Dr. Arunas Slekys, chairman of the GVF board of directors since 2008, said “On behalf of the board and all GVF members, numbering over 50 of the satellite world’s leaders, I’d like to thank David for his many contributions in strengthening the voice of our industry and wish him the very best in his future endeavours. The appointment of Irina Petrov as acting secretary general is worthy recognition of her leadership and numerous contributions in expanding our membership and advocacy programmes”.
Meltzer added: “I sincerely appreciate the support of GVF’s members, board, and most importantly my colleagues at GVF these last four and a half years.
“I am very proud of the new member services we have provided during my tenure such as our webinar series and online training tools with much of the credit going to Irina Petrov. I leave with great confidence in Irina and GVF.”
In accepting the appointment, Petrov said, “I am honoured to have been given the opportunity to lead GVF and to further build on its extraordinary legacy. Our focus will remain on growing the awareness of how satellite positively impacts people’s lives and supporting our members in advancing their business interests across the entire satellite industry”.
Petrov will continue to be based at GVF’s London headquarters.
