In a world where innovation and leadership must go hand in hand, few individuals embody that intersection quite like Nikhil Ravishankar. From humble academic roots in Auckland to becoming the incoming Chief Executive Officer of Air New Zealand, Ravishankar’s journey is nothing short of extraordinary — a testament to strategic brilliance, human-centred leadership, and relentless passion.
As of October 20, 2025, Nikhil Ravishankar, Air New Zealand leadership era will officially begin, succeeding outgoing CEO Greg Foran. The announcement has stirred excitement, pride, and inspiration across the aviation industry and the wider business community — not just because of what he has achieved, but because of how he has done it.
Nikhil Ravishankar: From Code to Cockpits – A Digital Architect’s Rise
Nikhil’s story begins in New Zealand, where he pursued dual degrees in Computer Science and Commerce at the University of Auckland — a rare combination that would come to define his unique perspective. He didn’t just learn how to build systems; he learned how to build value.
His early career path led him to the heights of global consultancy at Accenture, where he served as Managing Director across Hong Kong, Australia, and New Zealand. Here, he refined his expertise in large-scale transformation, leading complex, high-stakes digital programs in both public and private sectors.
But it was at Vector New Zealand, where he served as Chief Digital Officer, that he began crafting a distinct leadership style — one that fused technological evolution with people-first transformation. He steered Vector’s digital journey, embedding purpose, sustainability, and innovation at every level.
Steering the Future at Air New Zealand
In 2021, Nikhil joined Air New Zealand as Chief Digital Officer, at a time when the aviation industry was reeling from the pandemic. Rather than retreating, Ravishankar leaned into the crisis. He led the revamp of the airline’s technology backbone, redesigned loyalty programs, and enhanced customer platforms — all while ensuring safety, efficiency, and personalisation remained uncompromised.
With nearly five years at the airline, he didn’t just modernise its operations — he redefined its digital DNA. Whether it was streamlining backend infrastructure or crafting frictionless customer journeys, his fingerprints are all over Air New Zealand’s transformation into a tech-forward, customer-centric airline.
His ascension to CEO of Air New Zealand is not merely a corporate appointment; it’s the natural continuation of a visionary roadmap that he helped draft from the ground up.
Nikhil Ravishankar: Why This Moment Matters
This isn’t just a changing of the guard — it’s the beginning of a new narrative for Air New Zealand. Ravishankar is stepping into the top role during a period marked by intense global headwinds: supply chain disruptions, aircraft maintenance delays, and fierce competition from Australian carriers like Qantas and Virgin Australia.
Yet, the confidence in his appointment is resounding. Dame Therese Walsh, Board Chair, summed it up powerfully: “Nikhil brings a rare combination of digital leadership, cultural intelligence, and the courage to challenge the status quo.”
And perhaps most importantly, Nikhil brings a deeply rooted understanding of what it means to be Kiwi. His leadership reflects the values of innovation, humility, and people-first thinking — qualities that New Zealanders cherish and the world admires.
A Leader With Purpose Beyond Profit
Beyond the boardroom, Nikhil Ravishankar, Air New Zealand CEO, is a mentor, advocate, and community builder. He serves as an advisor to the University of Auckland’s Strategic CIO Programme, sits on the New Zealand Asian Leaders board, contributes to the AUT AUTEUR Influencer Network, and is a member of the Auckland Blues Foundation’s advisory committee.
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