BA blow as sales boss goes

ONE of British Airways' top executives has stunned close colleagues by deciding to quit. American Dale Moss, director of worldwide sales, is a key member of chief executive Rod Eddington's leadership team.

He has turned down pleas from his boss to stay on. BA is expected to announce his departure to the Stock Exchange this week.

Moss, 55, was in America with his family this weekend. He has commuted every two weeks to be with them.

The reasons for the personable and highly able Moss's departure are a mystery.

It is understood he decided to quit after it became clear he would not take over the top job. He has been with the company for 30 years and was once linked with a senior position at rival United Airlines.

It is widely rumoured that Eddington is pondering whether to stay at BA. He has made no secret that his heart still remains in his Australian homeland and a move there would not be a surprise.

Moss was not available for comment.

BA said: 'He leaves with our best wishes and gratitude for a huge contribution to BA.'