Chief Executive, New Plymouth Airport

Written By Amelia Long

New Plymouth Airport – Papa Rererangi i Puketapu Ltd 

Chief Executive - New Plymouth, Taranaki 

New Plymouth Airport is the gateway to Taranaki and one of the region’s most important pieces of infrastructure. Wholly owned by New Plymouth District Council, it’s a business that welcomes 385,000+ passengers a year, with 95% customer satisfaction. It also owns its own 10MW solar farm and private energy network, Te Matakupenga. It is both a transport hub and a renewable energy generator and we are looking for a Chief Executive to lead it on behalf of the region that owns it. 

The role 

Reporting to the Chair & Board, you’ll provide balanced leadership across aviation operations, infrastructure, property, utility-scale solar generation and commercial activity, delivering safe, compliant operations and sustainable financial performance. As important, you’ll lead the stakeholder management of key airport relationships, including the Council as shareholder, Air New Zealand, the community, and Puketapu as mana whenua, an enduring partnership the airport is committed to honouring and growing. 

You’ll bring 

  • Executive leadership from infrastructure, transport, utilities, property or a comparable essential-service business 

  • Strong commercial and financial acumen 

  • A track record of getting things done and working constructively with a Board 

  • Ability to lead operational risk and organisational performance 

  • Excellent stakeholder skills and a genuine, respectful approach to partnership with mana whenua, as well as other key stakeholders 

  • A relevant tertiary qualification 

You’ll also need to be eligible for approval as the nominated senior person and to satisfy the fit and proper person requirements under Civil Aviation Rule Part 139, and to hold Aviation Security clearance. 

Why Taranaki 

Alongside a great role, you will have the opportunity to live in Taranaki, where you can ski or hike the mountain and surf Highway 45 in the same day. New Plymouth is a genuinely liveable city: short commutes, more affordable housing than the main centres, excellent schools, and a coastal walkway that’s the envy of the country. It punches well above its weight culturally too, home to WOMAD, the Govett-Brewster / Len Lye Centre and the TSB Festival of Lights.  

Apply 

To apply please contact Louise.Thomson@Kerridgepartners.com. Please include your CV and cover letter outlining your interest in the role. 

Amelia Long
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