Airservices Australia has officially appointed Rob Sharp as its full-time Chief Executive Officer, following his successful tenure as the acting CEO since July 2024. The decision was made by the Airservices board, recognizing Sharp’s outstanding leadership and achievements during his interim period.

Sharp brings a wealth of experience to his new role, having held key transport management positions throughout his career. His previous roles include serving as the secretary of Transport for NSW, CEO of Virgin Australia Airlines, and CEO of Tigerair Australia. Sharp has also contributed to the aviation sector in various capacities, including as a board member of Newcastle Airport and a member of the Civil Aviation Safety Authority Aviation Safety Advisory Panel.

Airservices Australia, which is responsible for managing 11 percent of the world’s airspace and providing aviation rescue firefighting services at Australian airports, has a critical role in the country’s aviation industry. In addition to its core operations, Airservices is tasked with community engagement and consulting on airport operations, development, planning, and aircraft noise matters.

John Weber, Chairman of Airservices Australia, expressed his confidence in Sharp’s leadership. "Since joining Airservices as interim CEO, Rob has demonstrated exceptional leadership in enhancing the organisation’s operational performance and laying the foundation for long-term financial sustainability. Under his guidance, Airservices has made significant strides in delivering improved outcomes for the aviation industry and the travelling public."

Weber also highlighted Sharp's extensive experience in both the aviation and transport sectors, as well as his expertise in stakeholder engagement, which has proven invaluable in leading Airservices through complex challenges. "The board is confident that his expertise and vision will continue to drive the organisation forward as we navigate the opportunities and challenges ahead," Weber added.

Sharp’s appointment follows a global search conducted by the board, with Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government, Catherine King, offering her full support. "Mr. Sharp’s experience in these sectors spans leadership, strategy, commercial and operational roles – including advancing aviation technology development and innovation," King said in her statement.

She went on to emphasize the continuity Sharp’s leadership would provide as Airservices Australia moves forward. "Building on his tenure as the interim CEO since last July, Mr. Sharp’s appointment will provide continuity to Airservices Australia as it navigates future opportunities and aviation growth," King remarked. "I congratulate Mr. Sharp on his appointment and look forward to working closely with him and Airservices Australia to ensure our aviation industry remains among the safest in the world."

As Airservices Australia continues to evolve, Sharp’s leadership will be critical in addressing the complex and dynamic needs of the aviation industry. His vast experience and vision for the future of aviation, including advancing technological innovation, will ensure Airservices remains at the forefront of global aviation standards.

With Rob Sharp now officially at the helm, Airservices Australia is poised to continue its critical role in the safe, efficient management of Australian airspace while fostering further growth and development within the aviation sector.