Air New Zealand appoints Chief Ground Operations Officer

Carrie Hurihanganui is returning to Air New Zealand to take up the newly created Executive role of Chief Ground Operations Officer.

Ms Hurihanganui had an 18 year career with Air New Zealand, most recently as Group General Manager Regional Airlines and Airline Operations, before leaving last year to join National Australia Bank (NAB) where she is currently Executive General Manager Customer Experience.

She will join the Air New Zealand Executive team toward the end of July to allow a smooth transition before Chief Operations Officer Bruce Parton departs in September. The organisational structure of the operations function is being split into two pillars – one focused on Ground Operations to be led by Ms Hurihanganui and the other focused on Air Operations led by Chief Air Operations and People Safety Officer John Whittaker.

Air New Zealand Chief Executive Christopher Luxon says he’s excited about the fresh perspectives and contribution Ms Hurihanganui will bring.

“Carrie is well known for her positive energy, outstanding leadership, collaborative style, deep operational knowledge and customer orientation. I’m confident she will strike a good balance between what needs to be preserved and enhanced in Ground Operations with the courage to drive the change needed to keep us relevant and competitive.”

Ms Hurihanganui began her career with Air New Zealand as a flight attendant in 1999 while she studied for her Bachelor of Business Management degree. She went on to build her operational and management experience through numerous senior operational and corporate roles, including International Cabin Crew Manager, Auckland Domestic Airport Manager, General Manager Eagle Air, General Manager Offshore Airports, General Manager Customer Experience, and Group General Manager Regional Airlines and Airline Operations.