Former Virgin Blue boss to join AIA

Monday 20th September 2010

Auckland International Airport has recruited former Virgin Blue boss Brett Godfrey to stand for election as a director of the company at the annual meeting on October 28.

Auckland Airport chairman, Tony Frankham, says the announcement follows the earlier acknowledgement that the appointment of a director with significant international airline experience would add great value to the board.

"Godfrey's considerable experience and skill in the international aviation and tourism industries will make him a valuable addition to the Auckland Airport board.

"The board strongly recommends that shareholders vote in favour of Godfrey's election at the annual meeting."

Godfrey, a Queensland resident, has recently retired as chief executive of Virgin Blue in Australia.

He has had a 20 year career in aviation, initially holding finance positions in small airlines, then moving to flag carriers and culminating in establishing and leading the Virgin Blue.

Godfrey conceptualised, established and led Virgin Blue, Australia's second largest airline, as chief executive for its first 10 years.

Under his leadership, Virgin Blue successfully navigated through such hazards as 9/11, the Bali bombings and more recently the global financial crisis.

Now, in the year of his stepping down, the group employs 6,000 people, operates four airlines, including new long haul premium carrier V Australia, all up carrying 20,000,000 ‘guests' a year.

He retired from Virgin Blue in May this year to refocus on his private interests. He remains engaged with board commitments with Westjet (Canada's 2nd largest airline), Tourism Australia, The Queensland Government's transport board, Translink and Green Cross Australia.

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