easyJet has today announced the appointment of Ali Gayward as its new commercial manager.

Ali will lead and deliver the commercial performance of easyJet’s North West, Yorkshire and Northern Ireland bases, developing routes and scheduling as well as researching local market intelligence to optimise the network.

Ali joins easyJet following three years at Airport Strategy & Marketing (ASM) Ltd, a route development company for airports.  At ASM Ali carried out a number of roles including Airline Relations Director, where she was responsible for understanding and defining strategy for airlines and tour operators worldwide.

Ali boasts a remarkable air-travel background, including 19 years at American Airlines, holding roles such as Head of Sales Development UK & Ireland, where she managed relations with UK and Ireland travel agencies and also developed new route opportunities throughout Europe, as well as overseeing a strong team of national sales managers.

Ali Gayward comments: “I am looking forward to taking on this new role with what is now the UK’s largest airline. My priority will be to build upon easyJet’s reputation as a leading low-fares airline by maintaining the success of existing routes and successfully open up new destinations to the region.”

Paul Simmons, easyJet General Manager says: “I am pleased to welcome Ali to the easyJet team. She has a strong background in the industry and brings strategic ability and operational capability to the role. We look forward to working with her to develop and cultivate these key bases.”