Pichler at Virgin Blue
Almost a year since leaving the chief executive's office at the Thomas Cook group, Stefan Pichler, 46, has become the number two at Australian low-fare player Virgin Blue, reporting to chief executive Brett Godfrey.
Pichler, a former professional marathon runner, will be responsible for network management, sales, product and services, communications, marketing and brand management in the newly created post of chief commercial officer.
Before joining leisure group Thomas Cook as chief executive in 2000, Pichler spent over 10 years with Lufthansa. He was appointed head of worldwide sales in 1996 and became a member of its executive board in 1997.
Attracting an up-and-coming executive like Pichler is a major catch for Virgin Blue. The carrier says he combines extensive airline experience and knowledge of brands, including working with leading global brands such as Nike.
Pichler started his career as head of sport promotions at Nike. During his running days, he was already studying for his post-athletics career and gained a Masters degree in both Economics and Law at Augsburg University in southern Germany.
In other news at Virgin Blue, head of strategy and communications David Huttner is stepping down in December. Huttner, who has been with the carrier since its launch, will be returning with his family to Europe in 2005, "but he will continue to work with the airline as an adviser".
A US national, Huttner joined the Virgin Group in 1996 with Virgin Express in Belgium. He moved to Australia in 2000 as Virgin Blue was being established, and initially held the title of head of commercial.
MARK PILLING LONDON
Source: Airline Business
