17 October 2023
Coffs Harbour Airport announces appointment of new CEO
Coffs Harbour Airport (CHA) announced today the appointment of Mr Chris Mills as CEO to lead the next chapter in the Airport’s growth.
Chris Mills is an experienced CEO with a wealth of knowledge in the aviation and tourism sectors, most recently heading up Experience Gold Coast as its Transition CEO, and prior to that CEO at Queensland Airports Limited between 2015 and 2022. He is also a Board member of Tourism and Events Queensland, the state’s tourism marketing and major events agency.
Commenting on the appointment, Mr Mills said he was looking forward to joining the CHA team at an exciting time for the airport and the region.
“Coffs Harbour is a naturally engaging region and as the Gateway to the Coffs Coast, I’m incredibly excited to be joining the CHA team to lead the next stage of the Airport’s future as we continue to connect the region.
“As one of the busiest regional airports in New South Wales, I’m looking forward to exploring how we can continue to drive growth and support the wider region”, said Mr Mills.
Coffs Harbour Airport Pty Ltd Chair, Mr Dennis Chant, congratulated Mr Mills on his appointment as CEO.
“Chris’ extensive experience in finance, tourism, leisure, aviation, property planning and development across the private and public sectors made him the perfect fit to lead the team at Coffs Harbour Airport as it embarks on an exciting journey.
“His leadership approach is to build high performing teams that have improved airport experiences and driven significant capital investment with positive outcomes for shareholders, stakeholders and the community.
“I’d also like to thank our interim CEO Gary Allen who has been in the role since May 2023. Gary has worked with the Board and been invaluable in helping us to guide and assist the business through this transitional period to set it up for future success.
“Mr Allen will continue to be involved with the business beyond November to ensure a smooth transition, said Mr Chant.
Chris will also be CEO Sunshine Coast Airport as part of the Agilis Airports Group and will join the team on 20 November 2023.
About Coffs Harbour Airport
Coffs Harbour Airport is one of the busiest regional airports in New South Wales, located just four kilometres south of the city centre. With a catchment area of 150,000 people, the Airport services the sixth fastest growing region in NSW, welcoming more than 282,800 passengers through the terminal in FY2023.
The Airport plays an important regional role as an economic enabler, ensuring strong growth continues while supporting the Coffs community reach its full potential as a vibrant regional hub. The Airport is embarking on the development of an Enterprise Park precinct that, when complete, will house a variety of businesses, attract investment and create opportunities that will continue to attract talent to the region.
Coffs Harbour Airport is partnered by three airlines – Qantas, Rex Airlines and Link Airways – flying to three destinations.
- Sydney – serviced by Qantas and Rex Airlines.
- Melbourne – serviced by Qantas.
- Brisbane – serviced by Link Airways.
On 1 June 2021, the operations and management of Coffs Harbour Airport was transferred from City of Coffs Harbour to Coffs Harbour Airport Pty Ltd under a 50-year lease (with a 49-year option).
The management and operations of Coffs Harbour Airport Pty Ltd is supported by management group, Agilis Airports, which also oversees Sunshine Coast Airport Pty Ltd.
ENDS
Media contact: Agilis Airports Corporate Communications Team
(07) 5373 1901
communications@agilisairports.com.au
