Qantas has named Georgia Blackburn as new London-based regional general manager for the UK, Europe, Middle East & Africa.
She is taking on the role at a pivotal time, as the Australian flag carrier accelerates its recovery from Covid-19.
The airline is continuing to progress the work it started before the pandemic on ‘Project Sunrise’ project to operate non-stop flights from Heathrow to Sydney from 2025 and then Melbourne.
The role was previously held by Anna Pritchard who returned to Australia when Qantas operations were suspended through Covid.
Blackburn has been with the Qantas Group for almost 20 years in a variety of senior roles and was most previously executive manager, people, for Qantas Airlines and QantasLink.
She will continue to work with trade partners on the introduction the Qantas Distribution Platform in the region, designed to enhance the service that agents provide to customers with a wider range of products, including special offers for Qantas Frequent Flyers, ancillary products and dynamic commission opportunities.
Blackburn said: “With international travel rebounding so strongly, our teams are focused on reconnecting with our key partners and customers across the regions.
“Post-Covid, we’ve seen that traveller preference for non-stop travel is higher than ever. That’s why we’re excited to progress our plans to resolve the tyranny of distance that has traditionally challenged travel to Australia.
“I’m looking forward to taking on this role at a time when there is so much momentum and great initiatives in the pipeline for our customers.”
Qantas operates two daily return flights from London to Australia, one to Sydney via Singapore and the second direct to Perth.