Air New Zealand has announced the appointment of Neal Barclay to its Board of Directors. Barclay brings a wealth of experience in commercial, sustainability, and leadership roles, most recently serving as the CEO of Meridian Energy, New Zealand’s largest electricity generator and retailer.
During his tenure at Meridian, Barclay held several senior positions including Chief Financial Officer, General Manager of Wholesale and Generation, and General Manager of Retail. He led significant cultural changes within the company, prioritized customer service, and promoted renewable energy growth. His career also includes 13 years with Telecom New Zealand in various senior finance leadership roles. Currently, he serves as a non-executive director at Chorus in New Zealand.
Air New Zealand Chair Dame Therese Walsh commented on Barclay’s appointment: “Neal is a highly regarded business leader within New Zealand and his extensive commercial and financial skills, alongside his infrastructure sector expertise will further strengthen the Board. While still navigating some challenges, the airline is moving into a very exciting period in its history, and we’re thrilled to have Neal on the journey which is to deliver value to our stakeholders and ensure long term strong governance.”
Barclay expressed his admiration for Air New Zealand: “Air New Zealand has always been a company I deeply admire as it’s critically important to New Zealand’s prosperity. Its unwavering commitment to connecting New Zealanders with the world, coupled with an innovative spirit, is truly commendable. As the airline celebrates its 85th anniversary this year, I feel privileged to join the Board at such a significant moment in its history. I look forward to working alongside a strong Board and becoming part of the Air New Zealand whānau.”
Barclay holds a Bachelor of Commerce and Administration from Victoria University of Wellington and was made a Fellow of Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand in 2023.
