The Qantas Group has reported two changes to its Board, as the national carrier continues to focus on renewal.
Former American Airlines CEO and Chairman, Doug Parker, will join the Qantas Board, bringing more than 35 years of aviation experience gained in one of the world’s most dynamic aviation markets.
In November, long-serving Qantas Director Michael L’Estrange AO will retire from the Board at the expiry of his current term, having made a substantial contribution over more than seven years.
Announcing the changes, Qantas Chairman Richard Goyder said that the changes would help maintain the depth and breadth of experience on the Board, as the Group entered the next phase in its history.
“There are few people with as much experience running airlines as Doug. He’s spent more than two decades as an airline CEO in North America, including eight years heading up the world’s largest airline. The knowledge and perspective he’ll bring to the Board will be a huge asset as we grow in the years ahead,” said Goyder.
While Parker was CEO of American Airlines, its relationship with Qantas expanded significantly as the two carriers formed a joint business to serve passengers better.
Parker commented: “Qantas has always been one of the world’s great airlines and it has clearly come through the pandemic in a very strong position. I’m honoured to be joining the board at a time when there is a lot of momentum and I look forward to doing what I can to support that.”
Parker will sit on the Board from May 23, ahead of a shareholder vote at the company’s 2023 annual general meeting (AGM) on November 3. Current non-executive director, L’Estrange, will retire at the AGM after three terms.
