Stephen Humphreys has been named as British Airways’ new head of UK & Ireland sales and marketing.
He will replace Richard Tams, who is moving to become the airline’s China executive vice president after five years in the role.
Humphreys previously held senior roles with BA, including regional general manager, southwest Pacific and general manager, corporate sales in the UK & Ireland sales division.
His experience includes senior regional and sales positions with Qantas in Australia as well as managing director of Stella Travel Services in New Zealand.
More recently, Humphreys was chief executive of Wests Tigers, a professional rugby league premiership club based in Sydney.
He will take on the responsibility for BA and Iberia relationships with its UK and global corporate customers, travel management companies, partner leisure agents and tour operators at the end of the month.
BA chief commercial officer Drew Crawley said: “We are delighted to have Stephen on board in this strategically important role.
“The UK market is crucial for British Airways and Stephen brings a fantastic wealth of experience to the position, which will enhance our relationship with all of our stakeholders.”
Humphreys said: “British Airways is one of the world’s pre-eminent brands and I’m absolutely thrilled to be returning to the UK to take up such a challenging position with the airline.
“I’m really looking forward to joining the terrific team at British Airways and continuing to build on Richard Tams’ great work with our corporate customers and industry partners.”