New Amadeus Managing Director sets ambitious growth targets for Australia and New Zealand

Amadeus has appointed Mr. Tim Russell as Managing Director of its operations in Australia and New Zealand, effective 1st October, 2004. He will be responsible for all aspects of the operations of the wholly owned National Marketing Company (NMC) in both markets behind ambitious new growth targets.

Mr. Russell, formerly the Director of Market Management for Amadeus Asia Pacific, brings to the position a wealth of management experience in the industry. During his tenure he has overseen the rapid expansion of Amadeus throughout the region and expects to drive growth in these two key markets, which already contribute close to 15% of Amadeus’ bookings in the region.

“In a dynamic and highly competitive environment, the flexibility to adapt to new market conditions and the ability to meet the expectations of key business partners will be critical to our success. The speed with which the technology needs of Amadeus’ travel and tourism industry partners in Australia and New Zealand have grown is remarkable, and with that comes tremendous opportunity”, said Mr. Russell.

He added, “Our success to date has been built on customer-value and is a testament to the strength of our business partnerships in both markets. Combining global strength with local expertise, we will continue to deliver world-class customer service and support, and the full range of tailored travel management solutions offering the latest technology to airlines, agents and corporations in Australia and New Zealand".

Mr. David Brett, President, Amadeus Asia Pacific, said, “Tim’s commitment over the past four years has been instrumental in Amadeus’ growth in the region, and I am confident that his appointment will further accelerate Amadeus and our partners growth in Australia and New Zealand, reflecting the tremendous potential of these two markets.”

Mr. Russell has been actively involved at a senior executive and strategic level in the marketing of Amadeus throughout Asia Pacific. In his role as Director of Market Management, his responsibilities included management of the region’s largest and fastest growing Global Distribution System’s (GDS) 900 staff across more than 60 fully integrated offices in 34 Asia Pacific markets.

Mr. Russell, who joins an established team of over 90 highly experienced professionals in five offices (Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne, Perth and Auckland), replaces Mr. Bill Lawler, who was recently appointed Regional Director of the Multinational Customer Group (MCG), Amadeus Asia Pacific.