Des Vertannes Joins TIACA’s Hall of Fame

Des Vertannes is the 2017 winner
“It could not happen to a nicer guy.”
Des Vertannes who started his aviation career back in 1970 at British Airways is a true air cargo veteran who has during the past 47 years has contributed much to the advancement and further development of the cargo industry.
I have known Des for many of those years and have always admired his quiet and determined way of tackling issues, his closeness to those around him and his respect for his competitors. He has had a varied and successful career, one which has enabled him to become an inspiring leader and who has never shied away from a challenge.
Des set up his own forwarding business in 1984 before joining Air Canada as General Manager Cargo in 1991. He spent quite some time as Head of Cargo at Menzies World Cargo before moving back into cargo management positions at Gulf Air and Etihad Airways.

IATA Cargo - the biggest challenge?
It was in 2010 that Des Vertannes probably took up his most challenging position. He became Head of Cargo at IATA - a position he held for four years before deciding to retire from the business in order to spend more valuable time with his family. It was during those four years that Des “blew a new wind” through IATA’s halls.
He gave IATA Cargo a new face with his open and determined way of taking on the problems facing the air cargo industry and did not shy away from impressing on the industry the need for change and closer cooperation.

How does he feel?
CargoForwarder Global asked Des Vertannes on the weekend if he would  comment on his induction into the TIACA Hall of Fame.
He stated the following:

“I am hugely honoured and privileged by this recognition from TIACA and thank its Board and Chairman’s Council immensely for this award. To associate me within such illustrious names including my mentor Geoff Bridges and other truly great industry innovators and leaders humbles me completely. This is an incredible industry and throughout my career I have been extremely fortunate and blessed to work alongside such talented colleagues and peers. However, the roots have been my family and no words could aptly describe their support and sacrifice for which I am extremely grateful.”
As unpretentious as always!
A long standing guiding hand in the industry has stepped back from the day-to-day  role and now takes his well earned place next to his 50 predecessors in the Hall of Fame.
Well done Des!

John Mc Donagh