AIR JAMAICA implemented changes to its executive structure this week, with two new appointments to the team, as the company reshapes itself to focus on operational efficiency and ways to make more money, Wednesday Business has learned.
With effect from May 5, executive vice-president John Lewis has been given the task of overseeing all revenue generating areas of the airline under the added and newly-created title of chief revenue officer.
Lewis has been with the airline since 1994 and was already a member of the executive. He has some 40 years of aviation industry experience.
David Banmiller, who was appointed executive vice-president and chief operating officer, will assume some of the technical duties that Bruce Nobles had prior to his departure.
Confirming the moves, Air Jamaica's communications manager, Sandrea Falconer, said Lewis' job will be to oversee activities in "all revenue related" divisions, synergising the areas of marketing, sales, airline planning and scheduling, pricing and revenue management, and reservations.
Last year, Air Jamaica lost more than US$90 million, and had projected another US$20 million drop in revenues to June, largely due to fall-out from the US-Iraqi war. In March, it cut 25 managers as part of a thrust to slim down expenses.
FLIGHT OPERATIONS
Banmiller, who has worked with several international carriers, will take charge of all aspects of flight operations, maintenance, customer service and cargo.
"He has extensive experience in positioning airlines for profitability, operational efficiency, cost cutting, and the revitalisation of companies," said internal communication on the new positions.
Both men report directly to chief executive officer and vice-chairman, Christopher Zacca, who made the appointments.
Banmiller's new responsibilities are likely to take some of the pressures off Zacca, who had stepped temporarily into the breach left by Noble's departure three months ago.
