Global search for new Sydney Airport CEO

A global search is on for a new chief executive at Australia’s biggest airport after incumbent Kerrie Mather announced she is stepping down after 15 years with the company.

Mather’s surprise announcement comes as Sydney Airport is grappling with whether it should be involved in the construction of a controversial second airport at Badgerys Creek, south-west of Sydney.

The company was given first refusal on any airport project within 100kms of Sydney as part of a 2002  privatisation deal and will need to make a decision by early May.

But Australia’s competition watchdog has argued separate owners would benefit passengers and airlines while some analysts are sceptical the company will take on the huge cost of the new project.

Mather has been chief executive of the listed company controlling Sydney Airport since 2002 and chief executive of the airport since 2011. She will remain in place until the new chief executive arrives.

“Under Kerrie’s leadership, Sydney Airport has developed strong and enduring relationships across the aviation industry, with all levels of government in Australia and internationally, and with our local communities,’’ Sydney Airport chairman Trevor Gerber said in a statement. “The partnership approach has delivered growth in aviation which in turn has stimulated economic activity across our local, NSW and national economies.’’

Mather said it was the right time for a leadership change and she had enjoyed working in the aviation industry for the past 15 years.

“Aviation is one of the most dynamic and exciting industries in the world,’’ she said. “It’s changing rapidly, led by constantly evolving advancement and customer needs. Sydney Airport has responded those changes and opportunities with a focus not only on our airline partnerships and their customers but also the wider community.’’

Tourism Australia chief executive John O’Sullivan described Mather’s tenure at the airport as “nothing short of transformational”.

 “Increased international services, an unprecedented development pipeline plus an increased community presence have all been hallmarks of her time in charge,’’ he said. “Kerrie has also been a great friend of Tourism Australia and contributed greatly to our efforts to grow international aviation to Australia.”