MAKING CHANGES AT TRANSAT

Air Transat has unveiled details of what it’s calling an “administrative restructuring,” while at the same time announcing the appointment of of a new general manager. The airline is making the changes in order to simplify its administrative structure — a move that has resulted in the abolition of 47 positions. Air Transat notes, however, that the reorganization does not imply any reduction in customer service and will have no impact on operations. Jean-Marc Eustache, president and CEO of Transat A.T. Inc., said: “With this move, our structure will be better adapted to face the challenges of tomorrow,” noting that the changes are part of the company’s three-year plan to return to profitability that were announced in 2011. Effective immediately, Jean-Franþois Lemay is appointed general manager, Air Transat. Lemay will occupy this position concurrently with his duties as Transat’s vice-president, human resources and talent management. A long-time Transat colleague, Lemay joined the company’s senior management team in October 2011. In another change, it was announced that Allen B. Graham, president of Air Transat, will retire from the organization on June 30, 2013. Eustache commented: “On that note, I would like to acknowledge the outstanding work that Allen has accomplished at Air Transat, and convey to him my deepest appreciation. There was much to do when he took over the reins, and he and his team succeeded in imparting the discipline and professionalism that, over the years, has brought Air Transat to where it stands today — among the benchmark companies in its category.” Air Transat is also preparing to begin implementation of measures called for in its program to reduce structural and operating costs, with an eye to reaching the targets announced in 2011 for fiscal years 2012, 2013 and 2014. None of the planned initiatives implies any reduction in services to customers.