From Electrical engineering to commercial aviation
Growing up, I've always seen the aviation industry as the pinnacle of human innovation. My obsession with it led me to dream of soaring into the skies.
My journey began with uncertainty during university applications. Growing up in Lebanon, a country filled with instability, I wanted to make a 'safe' and 'stable' career choice. Unsure of my passion within aviation, I pursued electrical and computer engineering. Despite excelling academically, I felt something was missing.
Post-graduation, I accepted a challenging job in engineering consulting in the Middle East, finding solace in familiar surroundings but ultimately realising it wasn't for me. After a series of unfortunate events hit Lebanon, from economic collapse to port explosion, a moment of clarity urged me to pursue my true passion. I enrolled in Cranfield University for a master's degree in Air Transport Management, facing financial uncertainties but persevering nonetheless.
After graduation, securing a job in Europe proved difficult until the British Airways position as Revenue Delivery Executive came up. I applied, and despite low expectation given that I needed visa sponsorship at the time, I was given the offer and I immediately jumped on the occasion to join BA. Thriving in this position, I appreciate the company culture, analytical challenges, and opportunities for growth. Managing flight inventory and making data-driven decisions to optimise revenue brings me fulfillment.
I work as a senior revenue delivery executive.
I am part of their Atlantic Joint Business with American Airlines, Iberia, and Finnair and Aer Lingus. I am responsible of economy and premium economy inventory set ups of British Airways flights from London to several cities in the US and Canada. So far, I have managed 22 routes and I currently manage a portfolio of 11 routes, 15 daily flights and 3500 seats per day up to 355 days before departure. The main purpose of the role is to define route strategies based on a thorough market analysis using data reports and to review Key Performance Indicators to assess the revenue performance while identifying key opportunities and risks
Pride in Purpose: Embracing Challenges and Rewards at British Airways
Pride in Purpose: I take immense pride in being part of one of the world's leading airlines, British Airways. Working for a brand that holds significant meaning for people in our country is a source of personal fulfillment.
Dynamic Role: My role in yield management is particularly stimulating. It combines analytical challenges with the technical skills I've acquired throughout my career. Making data-driven decisions to optimize revenues keeps me engaged and focused.
High Level of Accountability: The level of accountability in my position is significant, and I thrive on the responsibility it entails. Being entrusted with defining strategies for managed routes based on thorough data analysis and proactive decision-making keeps me motivated.
Direct Impact on Customer Behaviors: As a key interface between the airline and its customers, I appreciate the opportunity to directly influence their choices.
Inclusive Culture: The inclusive culture within the organization has been exceptional since day one. Feeling valued and included by my colleagues has contributed to my overall job satisfaction.
Growth Opportunities: I appreciate the unlimited prospects for growth and the personalized approach to career progression within the company. Knowing that my development is prioritized at an individual level is motivating and empowering.
Perks and Benefits: Additionally, the staff travel benefits provided by British Airways are a significant perk of the job, adding to my overall enjoyment and satisfaction in the role!
Don't stop following your passion: you will get there someday!
Don't give up! You will face several challenges along the way, and you might have to settle at one point in your career with something that isn't really fulfilling to you. Learn from your experiences, and let them be a fuel for change. Believe in yourself and never let the willingness to follow your passion die. Take risks even if it means leaving the comfort zone and the security buffer. And most importantly, surround yourself with positive people, who will believe in you, see your potential and encourage you to jump into the unknown when you feel scared to do it. The reward is big, trust me!
I led a project that was key in improving efficiency within the team
I led a project where I automated the process of identifying flights that are not in line with our forecast. The project involved a lot of stakeholders, including other teams from our department, the data science team, as well as individual Revenue Delivery Executives within our team. I was responsible of designing the project, leading discussions with different stakeholders, as well as implementing and testing the codes. The process has brought in significant opportunities for additional revenue for our team, and has greatly increased the efficiency with which we action our set ups.
