Highlights
- Air New Zealand’s CEO Greg Foran to step down in October after five years.
- A global search is underway to find the next leader for the airline.
- Foran played a crucial role in navigating the airline through pandemic challenges.
Air New Zealand (ASX:AIZ) is set for a leadership change as its chief executive, Greg Foran, has announced his resignation. After steering the airline for five years, Foran will leave his position in October, marking the end of a tenure that saw the airline navigate some of the most challenging periods in aviation history.
The airline confirmed the development in an official statement, mentioning that Foran believes the company is well-positioned for future growth and innovation. With that confidence, he has decided to take on a new challenge elsewhere. A global search for his successor is already underway, and Foran has committed to ensuring a smooth transition.
Reflecting on his time leading the airline, Foran described the role as a significant milestone in his career. He expressed gratitude for working alongside an exceptional team, particularly through the turbulent years when the pandemic severely impacted international travel.
When Foran took over the leadership role in 2020, Air New Zealand faced unprecedented disruptions, with border closures and operational hurdles shaking the aviation sector. Under his leadership, the airline implemented strategic adjustments to remain resilient in an evolving market. Challenges such as aircraft delays and engine issues posed further difficulties, yet the company continued to push forward with recovery plans.
One of the key initiatives during his tenure was the comprehensive retrofit program for the airline’s Dreamliner fleet. This modernization project, aimed at enhancing the passenger experience and operational efficiency, is expected to be completed later this year.
With Foran’s departure, Air New Zealand is preparing for a leadership transition while maintaining its focus on future expansion and innovation. As the search for a new CEO gains momentum, the airline is positioning itself to build on recent progress and continue delivering strong performance in the aviation sector.