Air New Zealand has named its new CEO, after promoting chief digital officer Nikhil Ravishankar to helm the carrier.
Ravishankar will take over as CEO on 20 October, after outgoing chief Greg Foran steps down.
Ravishankar has been with the Star Alliance operator for close to five years, and was formerly the chief digital officer at New Zealand energy firm Vector, as well as the managing director of Accenture’s New Zealand unit.
Air New Zealand says Ravishankar “has gained a deep understanding of the aviation sector”, and has led “major advances” in the airline’s loyalty, and digital offerings.
Airline chair Therese Walsh says the Ravishankar “brings the mindset and contemporary leadership we need to build on our strong foundations and focus on the future”.
“His ambition for the airline’s future and his people leadership skills, coupled with his pursuit of excellence, digital literacy, global outlook and relationships, and his deep care for the airline and New Zealand shone through,” Walsh adds.
Ravishankar’s appointment follows a global search for Foran’s replacement, after the latter announced his departure in March, capping off a five-year tenure marked by the Covid-19 pandemic, as well as ongoing supply chain challenges.
