Tony Marks appointed CEO of Pacific Blue Airlines

Tony Marks has been appointed as the man to head up the new International low fare airline in New Zealand - Pacific Blue.

Sir Richard Branson, Virgin Group Chairman, congratulated Tony in person on his new appointment during a flying visit to Christchurch today.

Tony Marks brings with him 10 years of experience in the aviation industry, including his most recent role as CEO of Origin Pacific Airways. Prior to that, Tony spent 9 years with Air New Zealand in key roles including General Manager Sales & Marketing and General Manager Commercial.

David Huttner, Head of Communications and Strategy at Virgin Blue was on hand in Christchurch for today's announcement and said, "Tony is well known in the industry and has excellent credentials as well as an outstanding reputation. Not only is he an innovative thinker, he is also an affable character who will fit in with the Virgin culture."

Tony Marks will take up his Christchurch based role later this month.

"It's a dynamic time in the aviation industry, especially in the New Zealand market and I am very much looking forward to exciting times ahead as we all work towards Pacific Blue becoming the airline of choice for New Zealand travellers", said Tony Marks.

Other key Pacific Blue appointments so far include:

Tony Parrish Flight Operations Manager
Bob Mahon Flight Standards Manager
Peter Morgan Engineering Manager
Alan Ferguson Quality Assurance Manager
John Hughes Manager, Finance and Administration.