TUI Aviation’s chief operating officer Chris Browne has received an an honorary Doctor of Science degree for her work in the industry.
The degree, from Cranfield University, recognises her work as ‘a pioneer in the aviation travel industry’.
Browne, who joined TUI when she began working for First Choice in 1999, has been credited with the successful re-branding of Air2000 to First Choice Airways and leading the merger of Thomsonfly and First Choice Airways to Thomson Airways in just nine months.
She was also instrumental in Thomson Airways’ decision to order 13 787 Dreamliners and become the first UK airline to fly the aircraft.
The Bedfordshire University is close to TUI UK and Ireland’s head office in Luton and is known for its contribution to global innovation and sector expertise including aerospace, leadership management and transport systems.
"It is a huge honour to accept this honorary degree from Cranfield University and a pleasure to share my career experience with its students today," said Browne.
"The travel industry is an exciting sector to work in and I’ve had the opportunity to be involved in some amazing projects, including being the first UK airline to take delivery of the revolutionary 787 Dreamliner during my time as Thomson Airways Managing Director. There are many opportunities ahead for both TUI and for the travel industry as a whole and we need talented individuals such as Cranfield’s promising graduates."
Browne was also awarded an OBE award in the 2013 New Year’s Honour’s list, an honorary Doctor of Science for management leadership from the University of Ulster in 2011 and membership into the British Travel Industry Hall of Fame in 2014.
