Sunshine Coast Airport’s new boss says he is “incredibly excited” to be at the controls at a time of significant growth for the facility and the region.
Chris Mills has been announced as chief executive officer, and comes to the appointment with a wealth of knowledge in the aviation and tourism sectors.
Most recently, he headed up Experience Gold Coast as its transition CEO.
Prior to that, he was Queensland Airports Limited CEO between 2015 and 2022. He is also a board member of Tourism and Events Queensland: the state’s tourism marketing and major events agency.
Scroll down to SUBSCRIBE for our FREE news feed, direct to your inbox daily.
“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,” Mr Mills said.
“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.”
Sunshine Coast Airport Pty Ltd chair Dennis Chant congratulated Mr Mills on his appointment.
“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,” Mr Chant said.
“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.”
Mr Mills will also be CEO of Coffs Harbour Airport as part of the Agilis Airports Group and will join the team on November 20.
Sunshine Coast Business Council chair Sandy Zubrinich said she eagerly anticipated the opportunity to work closely with Mr Mills.
“Over the years, the Sunshine Coast Airport has been a valuable member of the SCBC, contributing significantly to the business council’s mission to promote and advance the economic well-being and quality of life for all residents and businesses on the Sunshine Coast, and we are excited to continue this journey with Mr Mills,” Ms Zubrinich said.
“As we look to the future, SCBC is committed to our advocacy efforts to attract investment, improve infrastructure and generate employment within the Sunshine Coast region.
“It is thanks to partnerships like that with the Sunshine Coast Airport, that we can achieve these goals and further strengthen the Sunshine Coast’s position as a dynamic and prosperous community.”
By 2040, total direct employment at Sunshine Coast Airport is expected to grow from 530 to 2400 direct jobs and directly contribute an estimated $307 million to Australia’s GDP and $460 million in total.
Sunshine Coast Airport Pty Ltd operates and manages Sunshine Coast Airport 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 by the Queensland Government.
Sunshine Coast Airport services 14 destinations including Adelaide, Albury, Auckland, Avalon, Cairns, Darwin (starting in November), Mackay, Melbourne, Mildura, Newcastle, Rockhampton, Sydney, Townsville and Whitsunday Coast.
Like stories that inform, connect and celebrate the Sunshine Coast? So do we. Join an independent local news revolution by subscribing to our FREE daily news feed at the bottom of this article.
