Air Pacific has announced that Francis Tan - Manager of Freight – will retire from the company in the third week of July, 2012.  He will be replaced by Watson Seeto, who returns to Nadi after establishing and managing Air Pacific’s operations in Hong Kong as Regional General Manager - Asia.

Francis began his career in Melbourne as Air Pacific’s Manager - Airport and Freight and then moved to Fiji to assume responsibility for the company’s network freight operations.  Under his leadership, Air Pacific transitioned from a subcontracted “GSA” structure to self handling in most locations worldwide.  

“Francis’ leadership and broad experience helped Air Pacific become a well-regarded and pre-eminent freight provider in the South Pacific region. We are all very grateful for his 22 years of dedicated service and we wish Francis all the best in retirement," said Dave Pflieger, Air Pacific’s Managing Director and CEO.

Francis’ responsibilities will be taken up by Watson Seeto, who returns back to Fiji after a two and a half years stint in Hong Kong.

Watson began his Air Pacific career more than 30 years ago and has held senior management roles in Airport Operations, Sales and Freight with the company.  He was nominated to lead Air Pacific’s start up in Hong Kong in 2009. 

“We welcome Watson back home as our new Regional General Manager Freight, and feel confident that he will be able to build on Francis’ solid foundation in the Freight Division” added Mr. Pflieger

Air Pacific is in the process of recruiting Watson’s replacement in Hong Kong – with an announcement expected in the next month.