Air New Zealand has appointed its Chief Digital Officer, Nikhil Ravishankar, as the airline’s new Chief Executive, ushering in what the board calls “a new generation of leadership” as the company looks to future-proof its operations.
In a statement, Ravishankar described his appointment as both a privilege and a responsibility. “This airline is an institution with a deep legacy but also a fantastic future,” he said.
“At the end of the day, we are a people business – purposeful, ambitious, and deeply rooted in Aotearoa New Zealand. I’m excited to help shape what this next stage of Air New Zealand looks like.”
Ravishankar will take over the reins on 20 October 2025, succeeding Greg Foran, who steps down after almost six years at the helm. His appointment follows an international search and reflects the airline’s strategic pivot toward innovation, technology, and customer-centric service in the post-pandemic era.
Born in India and raised in New Zealand, Ravishankar holds a BSc in Computer Science and a BCom (Hons) from the University of Auckland. He began his career in technology strategy at Telecom New Zealand (now Spark) and later became Managing Director at Accenture, working across the Asia-Pacific.
In 2017, he was appointed Chief Digital Officer at Vector, where he led a major digital transformation. Ravishankar is also active in leadership circles, serving on the boards of New Zealand Asian Leaders, the Blues Foundation advisory committee, and is a member of the AUT AUTEUR Influencer Network.
Despite not coming from a traditional aviation background, Ravishankar brings extensive experience in digital transformation, having previously held senior roles at Vector, Accenture, and Telecom New Zealand. Since joining Air New Zealand nearly five years ago, he has spearheaded significant upgrades to the airline’s technology systems, loyalty programme, and customer experience platforms.
Air New Zealand Chair Dame Therese Walsh said Ravishankar’s appointment signals a fresh chapter for the airline. “We have always been bold and not afraid to adapt and lead. Nikhil brings the mindset and contemporary leadership we need to build on our strong foundations and focus on the future,” she said.
“His ambition, people leadership, global outlook and digital acumen, combined with his deep care for the airline and New Zealand, made him the standout choice.”
Ravishankar’s promotion comes as Air New Zealand pushes back against fierce competition from Qantas and North American carriers increasing their presence in the Pacific. The airline has introduced a new top-tier AirPoints membership, upgraded customer tech systems, and is refurbishing its business class product.
Outgoing CEO Greg Foran, a former Walmart executive, joined just two weeks before COVID-19 shut borders globally. While Qantas and Virgin Australia experienced post-pandemic booms, Air New Zealand grappled with fleet issues that hindered recovery.
Under Foran, the airline began overhauling its ageing widebody fleet and initiated business class upgrades set to launch by year’s end. With Ravishankar at the controls, Air New Zealand is aiming to soar into a more connected, customer-focused and tech-driven future.
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