Air Seychelles, the national airline of the Republic of Seychelles, has appointed Cramer Ball as chief executive, with effect from February 1st, 2012.

The move follows a recent strategic partnership between Air Seychelles and United Arab Emirates flag-carrier Etihad Airways.

Seychelles transport minister, Joel Morgan, made the announcement alongside Etihad chief executive, James Hogan, earlier.

The minister stated Seychelles president, James Michel, welcomed the arrival of a strong management team from Etihad to orient Air Seychelles on a robust and secure footing.

Ball (pictured above), who was formerly Etihad Airways regional general manager Asia Pacific South and Australasia, has been seconded to the Seychelles national carrier as part of the restructuring for Air Seychelles which will be implemented jointly with Etihad Airways.

With a wealth of broad-based industry experience, which encompasses both commercial and financial areas of the business, Ball is a highly respected aviation professional.

Commenting on his new role, he said: “This is a very exciting point in the development of the airline. The recently announced strategic partnership with Etihad Airways, backed by the 40 per cent stake the UAE national carrier has taken, will allow us to consolidate our position as a brand leader on the routes we serve.

“Air Seychelles will work closely with Etihad Airways to leverage synergies and create efficiencies that will reduce costs and maximise yields. We will also look to implement strategies that will benefit the economy and support the tourism industry of the Seychelles as a whole.”

Shelley Cole has also been seconded to Air Seychelles to take on the position of Chief Financial Officer, effective immediately.

Etihad Airways is considered the World’s Leading Airline by the Etihad Airways.