Andrew Grunewald will take the reins as Brand Leader of Flight Centre Business Travel (FCBT) from the end of November. He replaces Ryan Potgieter, who will be relocating to Australia to pursue an opportunity within the Flight Centre Travel Group (FCTG).
Andrew’s career at FCTG began more than 13 years ago, as a travel consultant. His rise through the ranks is described as phenomenal, working as a consultant and Team Leader and later heading up his own Flight Centre retail outlet.
Andrew’s real passion however lies in helping people reach and exceed their potential. He graduated from the USB Senior Leader Development Programme and obtained several coaching accreditations. In 2016 Andrew became the Business Leader for the Sales & Leadership Academy and he launched the FC Business School in 2018.
Andrew has ambitious plans to grow the FCBT brand in the South African market. “My vision for FCBT is to be the most exciting South African corporate travel brand, delivering an amazing experience to our people, customers and partners. This will result in doubling the business by 2022 and being the TMC of choice in the South African SME travel market,” he says.
“People are at the heart of FCTG’s philosophy: We care about our people’s personal and professional development. In my new role, I want to create an environment that ensures that our people are continually growing. This growth encompasses system expertise, business acumen, leadership skills and customer experience ability.
“I am incredibly excited to be once again involved with this dynamic brand. It has a unique culture and a specialised approach to business, all supported by phenomenal people at all levels of the business.”
Andrew Stark, Flight Centre Travel Group Managing Director Middle East and Africa, welcomed the appointment. He said: “I have every confidence in Andrew’s ability to drive and initiate new business strategy and vision to the FCBT brand as a whole. His can-do attitude, professionalism and unwavering passion for the FCBT brand make him the Flightie of choice!”