Emirates has appointed Sheikh Majid Al Mualla as senior vice president in its commercial operations team after an impressive 12 months as vice president.

Al Mualla joined the company in 1996 and has been promoted to senior vice president West Asia & Indian Ocean.

During his time as vice president of the division Emirates expanded its services throughout the region - increasing flights into Mauritius, Seychelles and Sri Lanka, as well as stepping up frequencies across its ten destinations in India to 184 per week.

Emirates Airline president Tim Clark said: “Majid is a tremendous asset to the company, showing great dedication and talent during a long and distinguished career at Emirates.

“The fact that he has come up through the ranks provides him with experience and insight that is invaluable to the team and the organisation.

“Strong leadership was integral to the company posting record profits during a financial year in which many other airlines struggled.”

Sheikh Al Mualla is the latest product of Emirates’ successful trainee management programme.

Originally joining the company upon graduation from the Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Florida, he brings global experience to the position after postings in Riyadh, Bangladesh, Lebanon and the UK.

Al Mualla has also previously held the role of vice president UAE Sales.

“Majid’s promotion further strengthens our management team and will enhance our ability to meet the challenges which continue to face the industry,” added Mr Clark.

“Majid has already contributed greatly to the success of our West Asia & Indian Ocean operation and I am confident he will continue to help grow our business in what is a key market for Emirates.”