Head of Strategic Partnerships & Alliances

About the role

Etihad Airways is seeking a senior leader to shape its global airline partnership strategy. As Head of Strategic Partnerships & Alliances you will define, negotiate and implement high‑impact airline agreements that expand the network, generate commercial value and support the airline’s growth ambitions.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and execute Etihad’s strategic partnership agenda aligned with commercial objectives.
• Identify, evaluate and secure new partnership models including joint ventures, codeshares, interline and capacity arrangements.
• Strengthen existing alliances and deepen relationships to drive long‑term value.
• Lead complex commercial negotiations and obtain internal approvals for major partnership investments.
• Build robust business cases and present recommendations to executive and Board‑level stakeholders.
• Implement governance frameworks and monitor performance to ensure agreed commercial outcomes.
• Collaborate across Revenue Management, Network Planning, Sales, Marketing, Loyalty, Cargo, Operations, Finance and Legal.
• Explore partnership opportunities beyond passenger revenue, such as loyalty, cargo and ancillary collaborations.

Required profile

• Proven senior leadership experience in the aviation industry, specifically in developing and managing strategic airline partnerships.
• Demonstrated ability to deliver commercial value through joint ventures, codeshares and other alliance models.
• Strong commercial acumen with experience in building business cases and influencing senior executives.
• Excellent negotiation skills and track record of securing high‑value agreements.
• Ability to work cross‑functionally with multiple commercial and operational teams.

Required skills