Asia Qantas / British Airways Chief Lands Top UK / European Post

Qantas and British Airways Regional General Manager Asia, Mr Stephen Thompson, is to take over the top job for Qantas in United Kingdom/Europe in early September this year.

As London-based Regional General Manager for Qantas, Mr Thompson will be responsible for all the airline's commercial operations in the UK, Europe and Ireland.

He will also oversee Qantas activities in the Middle East and Africa.

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Mr Thompson was appointed to the Singapore-based post of Regional General Manager, South East Asia Region, in January 2001, responsible for the joint commercial operations of both Qantas and British Airways.

Early this year, his portfolio was expanded to include the North Asia operations of Qantas -- Hong Kong, Taiwan, Korea and the Philippines.

During his two-and-a-half years in Singapore, Mr Thompson managed both Qantas and British Airways through some of the most challenging times for the airline industry.

"As a major player in the region and particularly in Singapore - as the second biggest airline operation at Singapore Changi Airport - we've had to be extremely disciplined in streamlining operations and building strong partnerships in the industry to ensure our continued success," he said.

"Both airlines are continuing to invest heavily in product, both on the ground and in the air.

"As a result I believe that both the Qantas and British Airways brands are well positioned for the future throughout the Asian region."

Mr Thompson has extensive experience in commercial and airport operations gained from a track record of more than 23 years in the aviation industry. 

He joined Qantas in 1994 as Regional General Manager for South Australia, contributing significantly to the development of the regional office, revenue growth and opportunities with key travel partners.