British Airways today (March 28) announced the appointment of Jill Manaton as its new General Manager, Marketing Communications, with immediate effect.

Jill, 35, succeeds Derek Dear, who is retiring after more than 30 years with the airline during which he was responsible for the development and creation of some of British Airways’ most memorable advertising campaigns and promotions including ‘Manhattan’, ‘Global’, ‘Musical Chairs’ , the TV commercial featuring American political humourist and satirist P.J. O’Rourke and the promotion The World’s Biggest Offer.

Derek joined the airline’s advertising department in 1966 and became Head of Worldwide Advertising in 1987 and subsequently General Manager Marketing Services in 1992. He is also chairman of the Government’s Advisory Committee on Advertising and a board member of the London Tourist Board.

Jill joined the airline in 1990 as a Brands Manager and went on to become a Senior Manager in Marketing Communications in 1993. She moved to Hong Kong as Area Sales and Marketing Manager East Asia in 1995 before returning to the UK as Senior Manager Marketing & Alliance Communications in 1997.

She will report to Martin George, British Airways Director of Marketing and her responsibilities will include the airline’s advertising and sponsorship, promotions, corporate identity and design management as well as communications for the oneworld alliance.

Martin George, Director of Marketing said: ” Derek Dear has made a tremendous contribution to both British Airways and to the marketing industry. We are indebted to him for his creativity and experience.

“Jill brings with her an incredible talent for marketing, enthusiasm and new ideas and a wealth of experience from her earlier roles,” he added.

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