June 14, 2005

Departure of Ralph Norris

The union that represents 3000 Air New Zealand workers today acknowledged the announcement of chief executive Ralph Norris’ resignation.

Engineering, Printing and Manufacturing Union national secretary Andrew Little said that Mr Norris had led the airline through some significant stages, including the recovery from virtual collapse in 2001, the proposed merger with Qantas, and the repositioning on the domestic market as a mixed-value service.

“Ralph Norris has had a significant impact on Air New Zealand, and we wish him well in his new job,” Mr Little said.

Mr Norris is to take up a position as chief executive of the Commonwealth Bank of Australia.

ENDS