Travelport, the business services provider to the travel industry, has appointed Stuart Laird-Smith as Head of Commercial Strategy for the Middle East and Africa.

Before joining Travelport, Laird-Smith spent four years with South African Airways (SAA) as Head of Commercial and Operations Finance. While at SAA, he spent time working with several carriers in West and Central Africa, and acted as Chairman of IATA’s joint Travel Agency and Airline Group in Southern Africa.

In his new role, Laird-Smith will be working closely with Travelport partners including travel agencies, airlines, national distribution companies and operators, and help shape the commercial strategy for the region. He will report directly to Rabih Saab, President and Managing Director, Middle East and Africa, Travelport.

“Travelport enjoys the trust of the agent community throughout the Middle East and Africa, and a key part of my role is growing our presence in the region through new client and partner relationships,” said Laird-Smith.  “Travelport is a highly innovative company offering industry-leading products and an outstanding value proposition to agents, and I look forward to making my contribution to the company’s future success in the region.”