14.06.05
The CEO of Air New Zealand, Ralph Norris, is to leave the airline after successfully turning round its fortunes. After a 3 year stint at the airline, he is leaving to head up one of Australia’s largest public companies, Commonwealth Bank.
Norris said he had never intended to remain as chief executive in the long term. He saw his role as 'getting the airline back on track to being a world class operation.'
'I set myself ‘must achieve’ goals during my tenure. They were to leave the airline in a financially sound position, roll out a strategic blueprint covering short haul and long haul operations and build a senior management team that is second to none.' He said that this has been achieved, and he will now be handing over to a 'new generation of leader.'
Chairman John Palmer praised Norris for playing his outstanding leadership and for playing an integral part role in the airline’s recovery. No leaving date has been confirmed, but Norris is thought to have a six-month notice period.
