Air New Zealand Promotes From Within to Find New CEO

The airline has announced its chief digital officer will take over as chief executive in October.

Air New Zealand CEO-designate Nikhil Ravishankar. Air New Zealand

After an extensive search, Air New Zealand has found its new chief executive officer within the company, promoting Chief Digital Officer Nikhil Ravishankar.

He will take over from October, when incumbent Greg Foran is due to step down after six years in the role.

Before joining the airline, he was chief digital officer at energy company Vector and managing director of Accenture, a global professional services company that provides a wide range of services and solutions in strategy, consulting, digital, technology, and operations.

Air New Zealand Board Chair, Therese Walsh, said in a statement that during his nearly five years with the company, Ravishankar “has gained a deep understanding of the aviation sector, and the airline.”

His 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.

“We have always been bold and not afraid to adapt and lead,” Walsh said.

“The board undertook an extensive international search and was 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.”

Walsh said Air New Zealand, like all airlines, will continue to face significant challenges from climate change, increasing customer expectations, technology, cost pressures, and 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,” she said.

“He’s not afraid to challenge how things are done and ask questions.”

Ravishankar wasn’t giving interviews, but said in the statement that he was “both humbled and thrilled” to be given the opportunity.

“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,” he said.

“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.”

While Air New Zealand’s current performance is strong, it has signalled future problems, which Ravishankar will have to navigate once in charge.

In the first half of the 2025 financial year, its earnings before tax reached $155 million ($92.44 million), near the upper end of guidance, resulting in a net profit after taxation of $106 million. 

However, the airline says it expects a substantial drop in full-year profits due to engine maintenance issues leading to grounded aircraft and reduced compensation from engine manufacturers.