Flight Centre Travel Group (FCTG) has announced two key leadership appointments within its Canadian business. Chris Lynes has been named Managing Director of the Canadian business following the retirement of John Beauvais at the end of the company’s financial year on June 30, 2022, and Brian McLaren is the new EVP for Flight Centre Brand Canada.
Lynes started with FCTG in 2000 and will continue his role as President of FCTG’s Corporate Traveller brand for the Americas while also taking the helm of the overall Canadian business. The key responsibilities with his new role will be to provide strategic direction and growth of the organization. “Despite the challenges of the past couple of years, the demand for travel today has never been stronger. We have a clear vision on how we plan to meet our customers’ needs in the ‘new normal’ while continuing to grow as a business.”
McLaren’s career with FCTG spans 2 decades, most recently in the role of SVP, Leisure Supply Americas. In his new role as EVP for Flight Centre Canada, he will be leading operations across Canada, responsible for growth in both retail and digital. “I’m excited to work with the best group of travel professionals in the industry. Combining the strength of our people, technology, and global reach, we’re well positioned to give our customers exceptional products and service, as the Canadian travel market roars back.”
Both of them started at FCTG as travel consultants, working their way up through various leadership positions. Together they bring more than 40 years of experience to their new roles, epitomizing the company’s “Brightness of Future” philosophy.
“I couldn’t be prouder and more excited for Chris and Brian. They have both put in years of hard work and earned the deepest respect of their peers.” said Charlene Leiss, President of FCTG for the Americas.
“They have been instrumental within their respective areas in getting through a very challenging couple of years and are incredibly deserving of these opportunities. I’m extremely confident in the future of our Canadian business with these new leadership announcements in place.”