MONTREAL — Ferio Pugliese is succeeding Kevin C. Howlett, Air Canada’s Senior Vice-President, Government Relations and Regional Markets, who will be retiring in November after 45 years.

Pugliese will be based in Toronto, and will report directly to President and CEO Calin Rovinescu. His appointment to the post was effective Aug. 20.

“As a global carrier connecting 64 Canadian cities and communities to more than 220 worldwide markets on six continents, one of Air Canada’s key priorities is continuing to outreach and strengthen the partnerships we have in the cities and communities we fly to, and our relationships with all levels of government in Canada,” said Rovinescu. “Ferio’s solid, diverse experience from several Canadian organizations is well-suited to oversee these important relationships, and to also lead the strategic direction of Air Canada’s regional operations including our relationships with our regional carriers operating on Air Canada’s behalf.”

Rovinescu also congratulated Howlett on his upcoming retirement this fall, and thanked him “for his valuable and tireless work.”

Prior to joining Air Canada, Pugliese was previously Executive VP, Customer and Corporate Affairs at Hydro One Inc.

He has also held senior leadership positions at other Canadian companies including WestJet and WestJet Encore.