QANTAS announced Vanessa Hudson would become the next CEO and managing director, taking over from Alan Joyce when he retires in November 2023.
According to Qantas, its freight division services more than 500 destinations using 22 dedicated cargo-handling terminals.
Ms Hudson is currently the group’s chief financial officer and has worked in several executive positions across the group over 28 years.
Ms Hudson will continue in her current role while also being CEO designate and joining the board, before taking over as the company’s 13th CEO in 103 years following the 2023 Annual General Meeting.
Chairman Richard Goyder said the appointment came after a rigorous selection process and allows for a smooth transition from current CEO Alan Joyce.
“A lot of thought has gone into this succession and the Board had a number of high-quality candidates to consider, both internally and externally,” Mr Goyder said.
“Vanessa has a deep understanding of this business after almost three decades in a range of roles both onshore and offshore, across commercial, customer and finance. She has a huge amount of airline experience and she’s an outstanding leader.”
Ms Hudson said: “It’s an absolute honour to be asked to lead the national carrier. This is an exceptional company full of incredibly talented people and it’s very well positioned for the future. My focus will be delivering for those we rely on and who rely on us – our customers, our employees, our shareholders and the communities we serve.”
