Qantas Welcomes New CEO

Qantas officially has a new CEO following Alan Joyce’s earlier-than-expected departure. As such, it is now entering a new era.

On her first day, Vanessa Hudson identified that ensuring the airline’s reputation increases is the highest priority. Additionally, putting customers first is a significant area of importance.

While all business areas must operate to a high standard, focusing immediately on customers is the new management’s number one priority.

Ms Hudson was previously Qantas’ chief financial officer but has long been pitted to take over from Alan Joyce following his retirement decision.

However, the retirement eventually came two months early as new allegations surrounded the carrier. Joyce said that leaving with immediate effect would allow Vanessa and co to move into the next era sooner rather than later.

Ms Hudson noted she was aware of the current state of affairs but ensured that Qantas had spent more than a century carrying Australians around the globe and bringing people to the shores. While challenges are present now, she says the focus is on rebuilding and returning to the good times.

Vanessa joins at a time when Qantas is undergoing the most extensive fleet renewal program in company history, with every element of the fleet being turned upside down for next-generation units.

The first, the Airbus A220 for QantasLink, is expected to be delivered shortly. However, other focus points include Project Sunrise, with the A350-1000ULR slated to commence in the coming years, and more Boeing 787s and narrowbodies.