Air New Zealand has appointed Nikhil Ravishankar as its next Chief Executive, succeeding Greg Foran who steps down in October after almost six years leading the airline through one of the most challenging periods in aviation history.
Currently the airline’s Chief Digital Officer, Mr Ravishankar will officially take over as CEO on 20 October. In the nearly five years that he has been at Air New Zealand he has gained a deep understanding of the aviation sector, and the airline. He has also led major advances in the airline’s technology backbone, loyalty programme and customer proposition.
Air New Zealand Board Chair, Dame Therese Walsh, said the appointment marks the beginning of the next chapter for the airline, reflecting the strong momentum underway and a new generation of leadership for the future.
“Across Air New Zealand we are very clear on what matters most – connecting our communities and country to each other and the world, delivering value and excellence, and running a world-class airline that all Kiwi are proud of,” she said.
“We have always been bold and not afraid to adapt and lead. Nikhil brings the mindset and cotemporary leadership we need to build on our strong foundations and focus on the future. The Board undertook an extensive international search and were delighted to see Nikhil come through the process so strongly. 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.
“Airlines will continue to face immense challenges, whether that’s climate change, customer expectations, technology, cost pressures or geopolitics. Nikhil brings a fresh perspective that is grounded in New Zealand values and a deep knowledge of the airline and critical infrastructure across different sectors. He’s not afraid to challenge how things are done and ask questions,” Ms Walsh added.
Prior to Air New Zealand, Mr Ravishankar was Chief Digital Officer at Vector and Managing Director of Accenture.
Mr Ravishankar said: “I’m both thrilled and humbled to be given this opportunity to lead Air New Zealand,” says Nikhil. “This airline is an institution with a deep legacy but also a fantastic future. It’s a privilege to step into the CEO role and take on that responsibility for our people, our customers, and our country.
“Airlines are complex, and safety underpins every decision we make. I truly believe that New Zealand is one of the most innovative nations in the world and one of the greatest destinations to visit. Our airline is amongst the very best and I get to work with some of the most dedicated people in the country, from our cabin crew, engineers and pilots to our ground teams, corporate and digital teams behind the scenes. At the end of the day, we are a people business – purposeful, ambitious, and deeply rooted in Aotearoa New Zealand, and I’m excited to help shape what this next stage of Air New Zealand looks like.”
