TORONTO — Flight Centre Travel Group has enhanced its Canadian operations with two new leadership appointments.
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.
Brian McLaren has been named the new EVP for Flight Centre Brand Canada.
Both Lynes and McLaren started at Flight Centre Travel Group (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, says Charlene Leiss, President of FCTG for the Americas.
“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. 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,” said Leiss.
Lynes first joined 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. His key responsibilities will include providing 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,” said Lynes. “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 two decades, most recently in the role of SVP, Leisure Supply Americas. In his new role as EVP for Flight Centre Canada, he will lead operations across the country and will be responsible for growth in both retail and digital.
“I’m excited to work with the best group of travel professionals in the industry,” said McLaren. “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.”
