TORONTO — Voyages Encore Travel has appointed former Air Canada Vacations executive and NewLeaf trailblazer Dean Dacko as its new Chief Commercial Officer, effective immediately.

In his new role, Dacko will be responsible for all commercial functions including new business development, account management, marketing, vendor relations and product development.

Monique Mardinian, CEO and founder of Voyages Encore Travel, said Dacko adds a “wealth of experience” to the team, bringing with him an “extensive background in the global travel industry, both in Canada and internationally.”

Prior to the appointment, Dacko spent five years as Director of Marketing for Air Canada Vacations, and nine years as Vice President of Travel Solutions for Carlson Marketing. He also spent three years as Senior Vice President, Head of Marketing and Product for Malaysia Airlines based in Kuala Lumpur, where he was responsible for the Crisis Management and Business Continuity programs during and following the twin tragedies of MH370 and MH17. His actions were largely credited for the recovery of over $1 billion in lost revenue for the airline in less than nine weeks.

Most recently, Dacko helped establish and develop New Leaf Travel Company’s airline, NewLeaf, as its Chief Commercial Officer. He was also recognized as one of the top 100 Most Influential Global Marketing Leaders by the World Marketing Congress, served as a member of the Advisory Board for Google in Asia, and was a participating member of the advisory committee for LinkedIn worldwide.

Dacko will be based at Encore Travel’s headquarters in Montreal, and can be reached at (514) 738-7171, ext. 207.