In a significant transition for the travel industry, Lisa Pierce, Vice President of Global Sales at Air Canada, announced her retirement at the end of the year. With nearly 40 years at the airline, Pierce’s journey from Customer Service Manager at Newark Airport to Vice President has been marked by remarkable achievements and contributions.
Lisa Pierce: A Legendary Career at Air Canada
Starting her career in 1977 as a Customer Service Manager, Pierce’s unwavering dedication and leadership led her to hold several crucial roles within the organization. Her positions included Senior Director of USA Sales & Market Development from 2013 to 2019, followed by VP of Canada & USA Sales from 2020 to her current role in January 2023.
The Impact of a Trailblazer
As Pierce prepares for retirement, her colleagues and industry partners have taken the opportunity to recognize her outstanding legacy and influence. Chippy Jegathesan, Co-Founder & Group CEO of Voyzant, shared, “Lisa is an exceptional leader whose professionalism, integrity, and genuine care have shaped the way we collaborated with Air Canada.” Her support was particularly vital when Voyzant expanded into the U.S. market, highlighting her role as a mentor and ally.
“That gesture, and the confidence she placed in us, is something I will always remember with deep appreciation,” Jegathesan added.
Admiration from Industry Leaders
Peer recognition has poured in as well. Rocky Racco, CEO of TTI Canada, acknowledged Pierce’s tireless dedication to strengthening relationships between Air Canada and the travel advisor community. “What is unique about Lisa is that for most of her career, she worked for Air Canada south of the border, where a Canadian carrier is a relatively small fish in a huge pond,” Racco commented. However, in Canada, Pierce’s efforts to foster respect and collaboration have made a significant difference.
Zeina Gedeon, CEO of Trevello, remarked on Pierce’s trailblazing role in the industry. “Collaborating with a smart capable woman in a position of leadership is empowering for the industry,” she said, wishing Pierce well in the next chapter of her life.
Transition of Leadership: François Choquette
In conjunction with Pierce’s retirement announcement, Air Canada named François Choquette as her successor. Choquette, currently the Managing Director of Revenue Management, will take on the newly created position of Head of Sales. With a robust 25-year career within the airline, Choquette has held roles ranging from maintenance to sales leadership in southern Europe and overseeing significant areas of the company upon returning to Canada.
A Bright Future Ahead
As he steps into this pivotal role, Choquette will report to Alexandre Lefevre, Vice President of Network Planning & Global Sales. He has also been active in multiple boards, including Tourism Montreal and the France-Canada Chamber of Commerce in Paris, showcasing his commitment to both the airline industry and community engagement.
A Fond Farewell and Lasting Legacy
In reflecting on her impactful career and upcoming retirement, Pierce’s allies within the travel industry highlighted the invaluable relationships and collaborations forged under her leadership. Suzanne Acton Gervais, President of ACTA, praised her as a “trusted partner to the travel trade community” and commended her genuine passion for the industry.
As Lisa Pierce embarks on this new chapter, her legacy as a leader and advocate will undoubtedly continue to shape the industry for years to come.
