Virgin Australia appoints new Chief Operating Officer

BRISBANE - Virgin Australia announced the appointment of Gary Hammes to the role of Chief Operating Officer, commencing 11 February 2014.

The role has responsibility for Virgin Australia’s Group Operations which includes ground handling, flight operations, line maintenance, engineering, as well as the safety, catering and network operations teams.

The US aviation executive brings more than 25 years of industry experience to Virgin Australia’s mainline, international and regional operations.

Virgin Australia Chief Executive Officer John Borghetti said: “I am very pleased to welcome Gary to Virgin Australia. In this important role, Gary brings a wealth of international experience and will have responsibility for the day to day operations, enhancing our fleet and network operations strategy and ensuring the airline maintains the highest standard of safety.”

Mr Hammes has held senior operational and technical roles with ASTAR Air Cargo, Northwest Airlines and United Airlines. He most recently held the role of Chief Operating Officer at World Airways. He brings a strong track record in leading high performance teams and improving operational performance and business efficiency whilst maintaining best practise safety standards.

Sourced: TravelDailyNews