Wheels Up Experience Inc. (NYSE: UP) today announced two transitions on its executive leadership team, as Chief Financial Officer Todd Smith will be leaving the company for a new role, and Chief Legal Officer Laura Heltebran will be departing to pursue other opportunities.

Starting September 9, Matthew Knopf will be joining Wheels Up as Chief Legal Officer and Secretary, with Eric Cabezas acting as interim Chief Financial Officer while a search is conducted for Smith's replacement.

Knopf has served as Senior Vice President and Deputy General Counsel at Delta Air Lines since 2015, leading the Corporate Transactions, Aircraft Transactions & Finance, SEC & Corporate Governance and Corporate Real Estate legal teams. 

"Over the last nine years, Matthew has played a pivotal leadership role in the completion of Delta's many significant transactions and key joint venture restructurings, while serving as Deputy General Counsel," said Wheels Up Chief Executive Officer George Mattson. "His impressive breadth of experience built during his over 35-year legal career, along with his deep knowledge of the industry and our company, will undoubtedly ensure a seamless transition as Matthew assumes his new role. We're thrilled to welcome him to the team."

Cabezas joined Wheels Up in 2019 and previously acted as interim CFO during a period of transition for the company. In his role as SVP of Finance, Cabezas is responsible for providing key financial support to Wheels Up's commercial, operational and functional teams. He was also instrumental in the process of securing the company's 2023 capital investment.

"As we conduct our search for Todd's replacement, we would like to thank Eric for stepping into the role of interim CFO for the second time in his tenure at Wheels Up," said Mattson. "I have worked extensively with Eric and have every confidence in his ability to lead our finance team as we continue down the path to becoming a profitable and resilient business."

Mattson continued, "Todd and Laura were valued members of the executive leadership team who both made critical contributions during their time here. I wish them both the best in their future endeavors."