Virgin Australia names Dave Emerson as new CEO amid leadership transition

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Global Industry News

Virgin Australia names Dave Emerson as new CEO amid leadership transition

Policy

Dave Emerson Virgin Australia CEO | Virgin Australia

By Sky Industry News

Mar 10, 2025

Virgin Australia has announced the appointment of Dave Emerson as its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO), following the retirement of Jayne Hrdlicka. The transition will take effect on March 14.

Emerson, currently serving as Chief Commercial Officer (CCO) for Virgin Australia, brings 25 years of experience in the aviation and tourism industries. The airline highlighted his international reputation for business transformation and financial success.

"In his current role, Mr. Emerson has played an important role in positioning the airline as a value and choice carrier that puts its customers and people first," said a statement from the company.

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Emerson's career began at America West Airlines before he moved to Bain & Company, where he spent 21 years. He joined Virgin Australia as CCO in June 2021, shortly after Bain Capital acquired the carrier in November 2020.

Ryan Cotton, Chairman of Virgin Australia, expressed confidence in Emerson's leadership abilities following a global search. "Detailed plans are in place which will deliver continued growth, strong business performance, and continuity of strategy," Cotton said.

Hrdlicka reflected positively on her tenure with Virgin Australia. "We have detailed plans in place for the next four years which support a very bright outlook for Virgin Australia Group. "

In response to Emerson’s appointment, the Transport Workers’ Union of Australia (TWU) emphasized their commitment to working collaboratively with him on job security and workforce respect. Micheal Kaine, National Secretary of TWU, noted past successes but stressed ongoing needs for employee consultation.

"We have seen positive decisions made at Virgin around insourcing and full- time jobs," Kaine remarked.

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