North Queensland Airports Announces Leadership Transition

North Queensland Airports, the operator of Cairns and Mackay airports, announced today that its CEO Norris Carter is leaving and will be succeeded by Richard Barker.

After completing the upgrade of the Cairns domestic terminal and steering the company through the COVID-19 crisis this year, Mr Carter reached a natural transition point and has decided to move on to new opportunities.

Mr Carter said “It’s been a privilege to lead the talented team in Cairns and Mackay over the last four years. I’m immensely proud of them and know they’ll continue to do great work for the two regions in North Queensland.”

NQA’s Chairman, Ross Rolfe said that Norris had laid strong foundations over the course of his time as CEO upon which the new CEO could launch a strong recovery as the social restrictions eased across domestic borders.

“The Board would like to pay tribute to Norris Carter and thank him for his contribution to North Queensland Airports and its success under his leadership. We greatly appreciate Norris’s achievements during his tenure as CEO and wish him the very best in his future endeavours” Mr Rolfe said.

Richard Barker joins the company as CEO after spending five years on NQA’s Board of Directors. Richard has extensive experience in Airports and Retail, most recently spending six years on the executive team at Auckland International Airport. As Auckland’s General Manager of Retail and Commercial, Richard developed an award-winning retail and food & beverage offering and transformed the traveller experience. Prior to Auckland International Airport, Richard spent a number of years in senior commercial leadership roles in the energy sector.

“Richard brings significant commercial experience to the role and has a strong track record in driving growth and a commitment to playing an active role in community activities. As we manage through the impact of COVID-19, we are excited to have Richard lead the company’s recovery and drive future growth to benefit the communities our airports serve” said Mr Rolfe.

Mr Barker said “I am thrilled to be given the opportunity to work with such a great group of people who are all committed to contributing to the growth and future success of the Cairns and Mackay regions.”

Mr Barker will assume the role in late November 2020.