New Caledonia Tourism and Aircalin have appointed Viviana Hales as sales executive Australia for the airline and tourism board.
Hales brings over 20 years of travel industry experience to the role, most recently working as account manager for Expedia Group.
At Egencia, she worked as a senior corporate travel consultant and groups & meetings project manager.
Hales has developed extensive industry knowledge and a deep understanding of the Australian travel landscape over roles with TravelManagers Australia, United Airlines and travel.com.au where she worked as a personal travel manager, customer service reservations and corporate travel advisor respectively.
“Travel remains one of my greatest passions, and I love immersing myself in new cultures and giving back through volunteer opportunities in the destinations I visit,” Hales said.
“I am excited to be joining the New Caledonia Tourism and Aircalin team as a sales executive Australia and look forward to building strong relationships with industry partners, sharing my passion for this unique South Pacific destination, and helping inspire unforgettable travel experiences for Australian travellers.”
Raising destination awareness
As part of her new role, Viviana will work closely with New Caledonia’s retail trade partners, wholesalers, and tour operators to raise awareness of the destination and Aircalin’s full service offering.
New Caledonia Tourism Australia account director, Rebecca Marchal said the team was thrilled to welcome Hales.
“With her extensive experience and genuine passion for the travel industry, we are confident she will assist in promoting New Caledonia as a top destination for travellers seeking unforgettable experiences in this beautiful corner of the world,” she said.
Aircalin general manager for Australia, Chris Thistlethwaite, said that Hales will play a key role in educating trade partners about the airline’s full-service offering.
“Even though we are only a two-hour flight from Australia, Aircalin still offers our customers food, beverages, entertainment and check-in luggage all included on the short flight to Australia’s closest South Pacific neighbour.”
