Andrew Finch Qantas: Executive Shake-Up Signals New Leadership Direction

Andrew Finch Qantas Executive Departures

Qantas’ executive team will lose its legal counsel Andrew Finch and head of sustainability Andrew Parker in the coming months, following chief executive Vanessa Hudson’s overhaul of Alan Joyce’s former team. Hudson has revamped significant parts of the airline's leadership since taking the top position in September, amidst a time filled with scandal and brand challenges for Australia’s largest airline.

Details of the Executive Changes

• Finch is scheduled to leave the company at the October AGM.
• Parker will be departing at the end of next month.
• Qantas has not yet named their successors.

This dramatic shift halves Hudson’s team of Andrews down to two and leaves only four out of thirteen executives who were in senior leadership roles under Joyce. Those remaining include Hudson, chief financial officer Rob Marcolina, Jetstar boss Steph Tully, and head of domestic Markus Svensson. Most of these individuals joined Joyce’s leadership team during the final two years of his 15-year tenure.

Background on Qantas’ Controversies

Andrew Finch has been implicated in many of Qantas’ legal controversies in recent years, notably the illegal termination of 1,700 baggage handlers during the COVID-19 crisis. He has also represented Qantas at various Senate inquiries, including the recent Qatar Airways hearing alongside Hudson.

Additionally, Qantas has released findings from its governance review, revealing a top-down culture that has faced issues with mismanagement. This review identified the airline’s appearances at several Senate hearings, particularly the Qatar inquiry, as critical factors contributing to its current brand struggles.