After an iconic 30 year career, 28 of those spent with Air Canada, Virgilio Russi, VP International Sales is retiring at the end of June.
“I’ve made a lot of friends in this industry which kind of tells me I’ve done something right,” joked Russi at a gathering last night celebrating his retirement in downtown Toronto.
Russi started his career exactly 30 years ago at American Express in May of 1994. Two years later he moved to Canadian Airlines International working in Brazil and Argentina as country managers before making his way back to Canada and moving into sales positions with Air Canada.
“I'm sure we can all agree that spring is a special time of the year it is for me for sure,” Lisa Pierce, VP Global Sales, Air Canada told the crowd in a warm tribute to Russi. “It's a time to celebrate blossoming flowers and partnerships, new roots and new beginnings.”
“As a global sales team, over the last few years we have managed, many challenges. Virgilio’s can do, optimistic outlook on every challenge and opportunity has been invaluable for all of us. We will all miss you. It’s comforting to know you’re retiring on a high note after one of Air Canada’s most successful years in our history, that you now can spend quality time with your husband.”
“I’ve only had the pleasure of working with Virgilio for the last 11 years,” continued Pierce. “I know many of you here have known him for many more years than that. He has been incredibly generous with his time, good humor, common sense and experience in nearly every department in global sales.”
Russi said he feels “very comfortable” in leaving the team in the hands of Pierce and Rocky Lo, who will take over his reigns. Last night’s gathering was an important one, not just to celebrate Russi, but to acknowledge the contribution of agency partners and corporate customers who Pierce says are critical to the airline’s success.
Air Canada's Lisa Pierce, Virgilio Russi and Rocky Lo
“I am leaving feeling very comfortable with sales in the hands of Lisa Pierce and Rocky Lo. All the best to everyone, I hope to see you around.”
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