Fiji Airways, Fiji’s National Airline and Ben Ryan have teamed up, with the airline naming the Championship winning 7s Coach its latest, official brand ambassador.

The charismatic Englishman arrived in Fiji in 2013 to coach the Vodafone Fiji 7s team, and has quickly become one of Fiji’s most popular sporting personalities after coaching his team to success at the 2014-2015 HSBC Sevens World Series.

As well as leading Fiji to success on the rugby field, Ryan dedicates much of his spare time to community projects, something which he will continue in his new role with Fiji Airways.

As a Fiji Airways Ambassador, Ben will work alongside the Fijian carrier on a series of initiatives to raise the profile of the airline and its association with Fiji Rugby.

Fiji Airways Managing Director and CEO, Andre Viljoen says: “As one of the world’s leading Sevens rugby coaches, Ben has the respect and admiration of rugby fans everywhere, especially here at home.  His achievements on and off the field with the Fiji team are outstanding. Moreover, the values he shares with his team are similar to our own. He is a brilliant fit with our organisation.”

Ryan says he’s happy to officially join Fiji Airways as an Ambassador, in a country which is now his home away from home.

“I’m honoured, really. My line of work means travelling everywhere and my trips begin, and end, with Fiji Airways,” says Ryan. “It’s a wonderful airline, and one that is extremely important to the Fijian people.

“I am looking forward to working with the team at Fiji Airways particularly on all their projects that involve the community.”

Ryan has already featured in a popular promotional video for the airline released in May 2015 titled “Seven Tips on How to Fly Like a Fijian” after Fiji won the 2014-2015 HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series.

Fiji Airways is the official airline of Fiji Rugby.