Virtuoso has appointed Brigid McDonnell as its first ever General Manager, Middle East & Africa to spearhead efforts of the network’s further expansion within the region. McDonnell is overseeing all operations in the market, including the implementation of a regional business plan, growing and managing a dedicated team, and operating as an on-the-ground reference for the Virtuoso network within the Middle East and Africa. Her appointment to this role was shared during Virtuoso’s Symposium, a high-level business meeting with executives from the network’s top agencies and preferred partners, which happened to take place this year in Dubai.

McDonnell comes to Virtuoso with impressive experience in the tourism industry from all corners of the world. Most recently, she served as Trade Executive Director for the Saudi Tourism Authority, in which she led the organization’s trade strategy for the American markets. She also held roles previously at Disney Destinations in Paris, EMI Meetings & Incentives in Rome and the Hawaii Visitors & Convention Bureau in Honolulu.

“Brigid’s extensive experience in the travel industry, most notably her previous position in Saudi Arabia, makes her a wonderful addition as our leader in the Middle East and Africa markets,” said Virtuoso Senior Vice President of Global Operations Michael Londregan. “These regions are as complex as they are unique and beautiful, and having someone like Brigid with firsthand experience and extensive knowledge will increase and enhance Virtuoso’s presence.”

McDonnell studied at Southern Illinois University, earning a Bachelor of Science in Communications, as well as the renowned Wharton School of Business at the University of Pennsylvania, where she participated in the Strategic Alliances and Managing Relationships Program.

McDonnell, who now joins a strategic team of eight regional general managers, is based in Dubai and reports to Londregan.