The Australian Airports Association (AAA) is the national voice of Australia's airports, representing a diverse membership that plays a vital role in connecting communities, enabling economic growth and supporting national prosperity.
The Board is seeking an accomplished Chief Executive Officer to lead the Association through its next phase of growth, influence and organisational maturity. This is a unique opportunity for a seasoned CEO to lead a respected national association, shape strategic direction, strengthen operating performance and represent the interests of the airport industry at the highest levels of government, business and the broader community.
Given AAA’s important national advocacy role, the CEO will be expected to maintain a strong Canberra presence and build influential relationships with government, regulators and industry stakeholders. The Board is open to considering outstanding candidates from across Australia, provided they can support meaningful engagement with the Canberra-based team and stakeholders through regular travel and appropriate working arrangements.
The Brief
Reporting to the Board, the CEO will provide strategic and operational leadership across the organisation. The Board's priority is to appoint a leader who can build organisational capability, foster a high-performance culture and position AAA for long-term success while continuing to deliver strong advocacy and member value.
Key accountabilities:
- Lead the development and execution of AAA's strategic vision and priorities.
- Build, inspire and develop a high-performing leadership team and organisational culture.
- Drive organisational effectiveness, accountability and continuous improvement.
- Strengthen financial performance and commercial sustainability.
- Foster strong and productive relationships with members, industry leaders, government and regulators.
- Serve as the principal representative and spokesperson for the Association.
- Work closely with the Board to ensure strong governance, strategic alignment and organisational performance.
- Guide the organisation through a dynamic and evolving policy and operating environment.
The Leader
The successful candidate will be an experienced CEO or senior executive with a proven track record of leading complex organisations and delivering sustainable results. You will be recognised for your ability to lead through influence, build high-performing teams and create alignment around a clear strategic direction.
You will bring:
- Demonstrated success in a Chief Executive Officer or equivalent senior leadership role.
- Exceptional strategic thinking and execution capability.
- Strong commercial, financial and organisational leadership skills.
- Experience working effectively with Boards and governance frameworks.
- A track record of building culture, capability and organisational performance.
- Outstanding stakeholder engagement and relationship management skills.
- Highly developed communication and advocacy capabilities.
- Sound judgement, resilience and personal integrity.
Experience in aviation, infrastructure, transport, membership organisations, government or regulated sectors will be highly regarded; however, the Board's primary focus is identifying an outstanding leader with the capability to lead a complex, stakeholder-focused operating environments.
Applications
Applications are invited from accomplished executives who are motivated by purpose, leadership and impact.
Lucy Newcomb at Salt & Shein has been engaged on behalf of the AAA Board to manage the process. Please apply online and direct all inquiries to Lucy, contactable on 0432 682 645.
Applications close 5 pm Friday 18th September 2026.
