THAI names new commercial chief

Thai Airways International’s board of director appointed managing director, cargo and mail, Pruet Boobphakam, as the new executive vice president commercial, with immediate effect.

He replaces Pandit Chanapai, who was transferred to executive vice president  human resources development and management.

The board announced the decision at the close of its 28 August meeting.

Mr Pruet continues to hold the post of managing director cargo and mail for the present. He joined THAI in 1984 as cabin crew.

THAI executive board chairman, Wallop Bhukkanasut, said the appointment was based on his extensive experience generating revenue in cargo and mail and passenger sales.

He has worked in top sales and marketing posts including assignments at overseas stations. They include stints as a regional director in Southeast Asia and Australasia and as a general manager in Australia, China, Malaysia, Sweden, Finland, Baltic States and Russia.

The board also named, Chuda Dhanabhumi, to fill the vacant post of vice president human resources management. She returns to her old job after being sidelined to an inactive role of advisor for special projects under an earlier management.

In addition, a corporate planning and information technology services department, phased out over a year ago, will return to the management structure. However, it will take some time before an executive vice president is assigned to head the department.

“Although the department was phased out, the jobs still were operational, but scattered around several departments. It was an inefficient set up, so we are consolidating them all in one department again,” said Mr Wallop.