Gulf Air announces three key executive appointments

Tariq Sultan takes on the role as Vice President Human Resources, Ali Murtada as Vice President Business Units and Danny Barranger as Acting Vice President Marketing and Sales.

"These carefully considered appointments are indicative of the fact that we are moving into a new phase of restructuring, which will require specific skills to drive and ensure its momentum and success," said Gulf Air President and Chief Executive James Hogan.

"Mr Sultan is a seasoned professional, with 30 years experience in the IT and services industries. However, it is his understanding of the people issues coupled with his in-depth knowledge of the empowering technology that will help us optimise the way we deploy human resources in the airline. He will have a key role to play in leading the various projects we have already initiated."

Formerly the airline's Vice President Information Technology, Mr Sultan has won respect around the Middle East for his leading role in the implementation of state-of-the-art technology that underpins many of the airline operations. He also headed the establishment of the Middle East's first world wide contact centre in Oman.

Mr Murtada, a 30-year veteran of Gulf Air, started his career in the reservations department, and a few years later was selected as one of the first candidates to take part in the airline's original graduate trainee programme for Gulf nationals. A series of managerial positions in various departments followed culminating in his appointment as Head of Cargo last year. His responsibility as Vice President of the newly created Business Units Division will cover cargo and Gulf Air Holidays, with additional business units being added later in the year.

"Ali has a wealth of airline industry experience and this strategic promotion increases our focus and will assist in streamlining processes and services in key areas of our business."

Mr Barranger's new position has worldwide responsibilities covering reservations, sales and marketing, with a portfolio including, branding, e-business, loyalty programmes, advertising and promotions.

He has held the position of Head of Sales at Gulf Air since July 2003 and brings extensive experience in sales team management and revenue growth and was previously at Intercontinental Hotels, as Vice President Sales - Europe, Middle East and Africa.