Etihad Airways, the national airline of the UAE, has reinforced its global team with key Dubai-based appointments within the Etihad Cargo division.

Robert Fordree has been promoted from senior network performance manager to head of Cargo Handling.  Fordree joined Etihad Cargo’s European operations in 2009 and prior to that worked for well known industry players such as Menzies and Lufthansa Cargo.

He will be responsible for the carrier’s global Cargo Handling operations and will also work closely with the Abu Dhabi Cargo Company to enhance hub capabilities.

Rory Black has been appointed head of Cargo Commercial Planning and joins Etihad Cargo from Gulf Air.

Black has more than 22 years experience in the aviation industry, both cargo and passenger divisions.  He will lead development of Etihad Cargo’s strategy and manage implementation of key initiatives in product development, e-freight and customer service.

Roberto Casabianca joins Etihad Cargo from British Airways and takes up the role as head of Cargo Sales. He is a seasoned industry professional with 16 years international experience in the cargo business.

He will be responsible for Etihad Cargo’s expanding global sales team, including the Key Account Programme, the industry vertical segment (pharmaceuticals, valuable goods, perishable commodities) as well as independent forwarder networks.

Etihad Airways vice president Cargo, David Kerr, said:  “As we move into 2013 and the exciting opportunities that lie ahead, these appointments reflect Etihad Cargo’s unwavering commitment to its customers, by building a strong, dynamic and customer-focused senior management team.

“Combined with proven track records within the industry and a huge sense of passion they have for the job, we welcome them warmly to the Etihad Cargo family and look forward to the contribution they will make to our division and our customers’ businesses now and in the future.” – TradeArabia News Service