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Australian Airports Association (AAA) CEO James Goodwin has suddenly left the role in a surprise announcement.
Goodwin, who finished on Monday, has been replaced as interim CEO by Airbiz chairman Greg Fordham as the association searches for his replacement, with the AAA saying Goodwin left by mutual agreement with its board.
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“We are delighted that Greg Fordham has joined the AAA in an interim capacity while the recruitment process is underway until the new permanent CEO starts. Greg has extensive experience in the aviation sector, as the founder and Chair of Airbiz,” the AAA said in a statement.
“He is an international thought leader in airport development concepts and trends and has developed a global team with resources and projects spread throughout the Asia/Pacific region, Europe, Middle East, and North America.”
When contacted for comment, Goodwin told Australian Aviation: “I can confirm I’ve left and wish those who’ve supported me in the role all the best for the future.”
In a note to AAA members seen by Australian Aviation, association chair Kym Meys praised Goodwin for his achievements in his four years as CEO, including AAA’s submission to the Aviation Green Paper, diversifying the association’s conferences and forums, and developing and releasing My Airport Career.
“James’ leadership has been critical to the success of the AAA, and he leaves a proud legacy,” she wrote.
“James led the association through some of the most challenging times that it and the aviation sector has faced.”
According to Meys, the change of CEO comes at a “pivotal time for the airport sector”.
“In recent times, the aviation sector and therefore the airport industry, has experienced a period of external consumer and regulatory uncertainty. This has been at a time when airports are needing to invest significantly in infrastructure to meet changing customer expectations, and attracting, educating, and retaining talent to the sector,” she wrote.
“The airport industry is also operating in a period where airlines are under significant focus from customers and government.
“Even with a change in public perception and government focus, airlines continue to have a strong voice to government and continue an aggressive lobbying strategy both to government and to the media with a negative focus towards airports, including incorrect facts and misinformation which has the potential to undermine airport business models.
“The AAA needs to continue to be a strong, united voice for the airport sector.”
