Dnata Travel Group has hired a new chief executive officer for its UK and Europe division.Ailsa Pollard is a 12 year veteran of the company's senior leadership team in a variety roles.From November 1, she will assume the role as chief executive officer of dnata travel group (UK & Europe). She will report to John Bevan, who is now the divisional senior vice-president for travel and oversees all aspects dnatas global business.Pollard, who is the head of a leadership team of nearly 800 employees, will take responsibility for all dnata Travel Groups UK brands Gold Medal and Travel Republic, Travelbag and Netflights.She has held several senior positions in her past including vice president, business development and strategy. This role involved leading the team that acquired and holds board positions on many businesses now part of the group's UK portfolio. Additionally, she served four years as senior vice-president Emirates Holidays. In this capacity, she managed the brand's global operations across 36 countries.As senior vice president transformation (global), and consumer businesses (ME&I), her most recent responsibilities included the dnata Travel consumer brand in the UAE and the complete strategic review and transformation through Covid of dnata Travel groups global portfolio of brands. This was to drive operational efficiencies as well as strategic clarity to help deliver its post-pandemic vision for a better world.Bevan commented on Pollard's appointment and said that they were delighted that another member of the dnata Travel Family will be able to take advantage of Ailsas leadership and expertise.I have had the privilege of working with her over many years. I know that our UK team, as well as our industry partners, will enjoy working alongside her and will continue to do great things together.All UK travel companies face challenging times. They need to be able to think clearly, act quickly, show honesty, and have the ability and willingness to make decisions. Ailsa possesses all these qualities as well as a clear strategic vision, passion for customers and operational know-how. The UK organization could not be more secure.Pollard said: I look forward to working alongside the UK team to overcome the pandemic. Although I am aware of the hardships that the past 18 months have wrought on our people, brands, customers, and partners, we have strong foundations and the support from a global company on which we can build an exciting future.
