AUCKLAND — Air New Zealand has named Nikhil Ravishankar as its next CEO.

Ravishankar succeeds Greg Foran, who steps down in October after almost six years leading the airline through one of the most challenging periods in aviation history.

Currently the airline’s Chief Digital Officer, Ravishankar will officially take over as CEO on Oct. 20. Ravishankar has been at Air New Zealand for close to five years, and during that time he has gained a deep understanding of the aviation sector, and the airline, according to Air NZ. He also led major advances in the airline’s technology backbone, loyalty program and customer proposition.

“Across Air New Zealand we are very clear on what matters most: connecting our communities and country to each other and the world, delivering value and excellence, and running a world-class airline that all Kiwi are proud of,” said Air New Zealand’s Board Chair, Dame Therese Walsh.

“We have always been bold and not afraid to adapt and lead. Nikhil brings the mindset and contemporary leadership we need to build on our strong foundations and focus on the future. The Board undertook an extensive international search and were delighted to see Nikhil come through the process so strongly. His ambition for the airline’s future and his people and leadership skills, coupled with his pursuit of excellence, digital literacy, global outlook and relationships, and his deep care for the airline and New Zealand shone through.”

Prior to Air New Zealand, Ravishankar was Chief Digital Officer at Vector and Managing Director of Accenture.

“I’m both thrilled and humbled to be given this opportunity to lead Air New Zealand,” says Ravishankar. “This airline is an institution with a deep legacy but also a fantastic future. It’s a privilege to step into the CEO role and take on that responsibility for our people, our customers, and our country.”