Independent By Flight Centre Strengthens Leadership Team

Image: Heather Baker has been appointed as the National Marketing Manager for Independent Brands in Canada.  (Photo Credit: Independent by Flight Centre)
Image: Heather Baker has been appointed as the National Marketing Manager for Independent Brands in Canada. (Photo Credit: Independent by Flight Centre)
Bruce Parkinson
by Bruce Parkinson
Last updated: 6:40 AM ET, Thu June 29, 2023

Host agency Independent by Flight Centre has announced the appointment of three individuals to key roles, reinforcing the organization's commitment to independent travel and its expanding global presence.

Michael Roque, an accomplished travel executive, joins Independent by Flight Centre as the National Sales Director for the Independent division.

With an extensive background in driving new business development and optimizing travel agency operations, Roque has worked for companies including United Airlines, American Airlines & Accor Hotel Group, where he led the Luxury Travel Concierge Division.

Roque’s role is to leverage his industry expertise and strategic vision to capitalize on the potential of the Independent and luxury travel segment across Canada.

Michael Roque, Flight Centre Travel Group

Michael Roque joins Independent by Flight Centre as the National Sales Director for the Independent division. (Photo Credit: Flight Centre Travel Group)

"I am excited about the opportunity to cultivate strong partnerships with travel agencies and advisors. The growing potential of the Independent travel market is something that truly excites me, and I am committed to driving success for Independent by Flight Centre."

Christal Bauer, previously the Leader of Agency Programs within the Americas structure, assumes the role of Business Leader of Operations for Independent Brands in Canada 

With a career spanning multiple leading travel organizations, Bauer brings extensive industry knowledge and a passion for supporting independent business owners. Independent by Flight Centre says her experience at Travel Brands, Ensemble and TPI has equipped her with the skills to help independent business owners thrive.

Christal Bauer

FCTG veteran Christal Bauer assumes the role of Business Leader of Operations for Independent Brands in Canada. (Photo Credit: Flight Centre Travel Group)

"I am thrilled about my new role with Independent by Flight Centre, where I will be working closely with our support team and independent business owners to help them grow their businesses,” says Bauer. “The global focus on independent travel and the growth opportunities that lie ahead excite me greatly."

Heather Baker, with over 24 years of diverse experience within Flight Centre Travel Group (FCTG), has been appointed as the National Marketing Manager for Independent Brands in Canada.

Throughout her career, Baker has demonstrated her expertise in various roles, including National Sales Manager. The company says her deep understanding of the unique requirements of Independent Advisors and her passion for creativity and strategic thinking make her the ideal fit for this role.

"I am thrilled to embrace my new responsibility as the National Marketing Manager for Independent Brands in Canada,” says Baker. This role allows me to combine my creativity with strategic thinking, and I am excited to contribute to the growth of the brand."

Anita Emilio, VP & GM of Independent & Luxury Brands in Canada, expressed her excitement about the appointments and the future of the Independent space in Canada.

"We are thrilled to welcome Heather Baker, Michael Roque, and Christal Bauer to their new roles as part of our leadership team in Canada. Their diverse expertise and passion for the Independent travel sector will be invaluable as we continue to focus on delivering exceptional support and driving growth within our brand. We look forward to their contributions and the continued success of Independent by Flight Centre."

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