Sydney — Qantas Airways, Australia's largest airline, has announced that Chairman Richard Goyder and other board members will step down as part of the company's efforts to rebuild its reputation among customers.
Goyder is set to retire before the shareholder meeting in late 2024, while Jacqueline Hey and Maxine Brenner will retire at the airline's half-year result in February.
The decision to renew the board is a response to the reputational challenges currently faced by the group. Qantas' brand has suffered following allegations of dishonesty towards customers from regulators and criticism of high airfare prices from lawmakers. Alan Joyce, the longtime chief executive, also recently stepped down earlier than expected.
Once the new directors are appointed, the board will have an average tenure of approximately three years, striking a balance between fresh leadership and continuity. Hey and Brenner have served on the board for around 10 years, according to Qantas.
"As a board, we wholeheartedly acknowledge the significant reputational and customer service issues that the group is confronting, and we recognize the need for accountability in order to restore trust," stated Goyder. He also noted that a smooth succession at the board level would support the work of the new chief executive, Vanessa Hudson.
Qantas previously announced that Michael L'Estrange, another board member, would retire at this year's shareholder meeting in November. The airline has confirmed that three new directors—Hudson, Doug Parker, and Heather Smith—along with existing directors Todd Sampson and Belinda Hutchinson, will put themselves forward for election at the meeting.
In the coming months, Qantas will initiate a selection process to appoint new directors and a new chairman.
