17 October 2023
Media Release
Sunshine Coast Airport announces appointment of new CEO
Sunshine Coast Airport (SCA) 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 SCA team at a time of significant growth both for the airport and the region.
“I’m incredibly excited to be joining the team at this time with a number of significant development projects either being planned or underway and record-breaking passenger growth.
“As one of the fastest growing airports in Australia, Sunshine Coast Airport has a bright future and I’m looking forward to exploring how we can continue to drive growth and support the wider region”, said Mr Mills.
Sunshine Coast 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 Sunshine Coast 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 Coffs Harbour Airport as part of the Agilis Airports Group and will join the team on 20 November 2023.
*Subject to regulatory approval.
About Sunshine Coast Airport
Sunshine Coast Airport is one of the fastest growing airports in Australia and was the first airport in Australia to hold Level 3+ Carbon Neutrality status. By 2040, total direct employment at the Airport is expected to grow from 530 to 2,400 direct jobs and directly contribute an estimated $307million to Australia’s GDP and $460million in total.
Sunshine Coast Airport Pty Ltd operates and manages Sunshine Coast Airport, the gateway to the Sunshine Coast and Noosa regions, under a 99-year lease from Sunshine Coast Council which commenced in December 2017. In July 2023, Sunshine Coast Airport was declared a priority development area (PDA) by the Queensland Government.
Sunshine Coast Airport services 14* destinations including Adelaide, Albury, Auckland, Avalon, Cairns, Darwin*, Mackay, Melbourne, Mildura, Newcastle, Rockhampton, Sydney, Townsville and Whitsunday Coast.
*Subject to regulatory approval
ENDS
For further information:
Contact: Sunshine Coast Airport Corporate Communications
[email protected]
(07) 5373 1901
