Etihad Airways, the national airline of the UAE, announced that Michael Venus will take charge of the company’s Corporate Affairs department.
Michael, who has been the airline’s Head of International Media Relations since June 2011, has been appointed Vice President Corporate Affairs, with immediate effect. He will be responsible for Etihad Airways’ public affairs and corporate communications, including global media relations, social media strategy, internal communications, corporate social responsibility, environmental affairs and corporate events.
Michael, a multi award-winning journalist, brings more than 30 years of media experience to the position. His career began in Australian newspapers covering aviation, transport and politics. He was also a daily columnist, feature writer and investigative journalist. Michael then made the transition to television news as a senior on-camera reporter with the Nine Network before being appointed Chief of Staff at National Nine News in Melbourne. It was a position he held for more than a decade. In 2003 he assumed complete editorial and management control when he was appointed Director of News. After 7 years in the role he relocated to the United Arab Emirates.
“Michael brings a wide range of skills and experience to this role. He will help us move up to the next level in our global communications,” James Hogan, President and Chief Executive Officer of Etihad Airways, said.
“Etihad Airways is moving into a new phase of its story, as the business matures and develops. It is critical that we explain that story to our audiences – our guests, the wider business community and our many stakeholders,” Michael added.
“I am looking forward to building our profile in key markets around the world.”
Hogan thanked Belinda de Rome who moves on after three years at Etihad as Senior Vice President Corporate Affairs. “During her tenure, Belinda established a strong team and lead key initiatives. We wish her the very best in her future endeavours.”