Lufthansa names Schaeffer chief for SE Europe, Africa and Middle East

As of April 1, 2012, Lufthansa German Airlines appoints Carsten Schaeffer as the airline’s new Vice President for Sales and Services for Southeast Europe, Africa and Middle East, based out of Dubai, UAE.

In his new role, Schaeffer will be responsible for the overall sales and representation of Lufthansa across 28 countries and 38 destinations in Southeast Europe, Middle East and Africa. Mr Schaffer was previously Managing Director at Miles & More International, GmbH, Lufthansa’s frequent flyer programme, from 2005 to March 2012.

Schaeffer succeeds Joachim Steinbach who successfully steered Lufthansa for nine years in his capacity as Vice President; managing the airline’s growth in the region from 2003, and helping to establish Lufthansa as the leading European airline across Southeast Europe, Africa and Middle East markets.  Steinbach now moves to Germany to take up Mr Schaeffer’s previous role as Managing Director for Miles & More International GmbH.

As he handed over the reins, Steinbach said:  “We welcome the appointment of Carsten Schaeffer, who brings with him two decades of expertise and an extensive background in the airline industry.  He will undoubtedly make a valuable contribution and strengthen Lufthansa’s presence in the region.”

“I look forward to my move to the UAE and to being at the helm of Lufthansa German Airlines across 28 markets.  Southeast Europe, and the Middle East and Africa in particular, are significant growth markets and highly-competitive, which provides Lufthansa with an opportunity to cement our position as the leading European airline across each of these regions,” said Schaeffer.

“With our comprehensive network of destinations, we certainly meet the demands for travel to and from Europe and North America, and are well placed to leverage our strong brand and product offerings.  Lufthansa’s investments in product upgrades and innovations – such as the global roll out of our new Business Class and the anticipated arrival of the Boeing 747-8 this year will boost our position,” said Schaeffer.

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