Air New Zealand has appointed Nikhil Ravishankar, of Indian origin, as its CEO. He will assume office on October 20th. The company selected him after a global search.
Nikhil Ravishankar CEO: Air New Zealand has appointed Nikhil Ravishankar, of Indian origin, as its next Chief Executive Officer (CEO). Nikhil is currently serving as the company's Chief Digital Officer (CDO) and will now fully assume command of the company from October 20, 2025. He will replace the current CEO, Greg Foran, who announced his departure some time ago.
Played a significant role in digital innovation
Nikhil Ravishankar has been associated with Air New Zealand for the past five years, during which he has ensured significant progress in the areas of the company's digital transformation, customer experience, and loyalty systems. Under his leadership, the airline has undertaken several notable initiatives from a technical perspective, which have improved customer service and strengthened the company's digital infrastructure.
Board Chair expresses confidence
Air New Zealand's Board Chairperson Dame Therese Walsh said that this appointment is a defining moment for the company, marking a major step towards growth and renewal. She said, "Nikhil possesses the contemporary leadership style that we need in today's competitive environment. He is a bold decision-maker and is ready to face changing challenges."
Indian face in global leadership
Dame Walsh stated that Nikhil Ravishankar's global vision, digital efficiency, and organizational leadership capabilities make him ideal for this role. She said that the airline sector will face challenges such as climate change, customer expectations, technological changes, and geopolitical instability in the coming times, and Nikhil understands all these aspects well.
The company stated that a comprehensive international search campaign was conducted for the CEO position, and Nikhil emerged as the most suitable candidate in this process. He will not only provide better leadership to Air New Zealand but will also strengthen the country's economic structure and global branding.
