Board governance

Chair

An experienced airport executive, Kirby joins the Board with almost 15 years’ as Deputy CEO and CFO at Melbourne and Launceston Airports. While in this role he was involved in major aeronautical investments worth more than $1 billion and has served on the board of directors at Launceston Airport. Kirby is a finance professional with experience in banking, forestry and public accounting. Kirby also has more than 15 years board experience in the health sector and is currently Chair of the Audit and Risk Committees at Djerriwarrh Health in Victoria.

Director

Wayne has over 40 years’ expertise as a senior executive across a diverse range of local government authorities in Victoria, Queensland and New South Wales. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Business Management (Local Government) and is a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors. Wayne brings to the Board high level strategic business acumen, as well as strong financial, governance and stakeholder alliance skills.

Director

A qualified aeronautical engineer, with more than 18 years’ experience in the aviation sector, Cam brings a wealth of industry knowledge and business acumen to the Board. His career history includes more than a decade’s experience at Brisbane Airport Corporation, as General Manager Aviation Business Development. 

Director

Jude has served on 20 boards including as Chair, Qld Urban Utilities and Director, Air Services Australia. She is Chair, Victorian Planning Authority, Chair, Victorian Pride Centre and Chair, Uniting Vic Tas and is a Director, Metro Tas. She was given the keys to the City of Brisbane in 2010, made a National Fellow, Institute of Public Administration and a Life Fellow of the Planning Institute of Australia.

Director

Jeremy is a strategic communicator with a breadth of experience across Local Government and State-owned corporations. Jeremy boasts outstanding credentials in public affairs, stakeholder management and senior leadership with ClubsNSW and Hunter Water Corporation. He is the current CEO of the City of Newcastle.

Director

Morgan’s career spans more than 25 years, working within the global investment banking and property industries. He is a full time non-executive Director with a current portfolio of six boards spanning the real estate, education, entertainment and technology sectors. Recognised for his thought-leadership, he is a globally sought-after speaker in the areas of cross border investment and future city shaping.

Director

Nuatali is the Lord Mayor of the City of Newcastle, a role she has held since 2014, after serving as a Councillor for six years. Nuatali is passionate about the future of the region, supporting initiatives to attract investment and drive job opportunities. She brings vision, knowledge and a dedication to establishing Newcastle as a truly global city.

Director

A born and bred Port Stephens local, Ryan was elected Mayor of Port Stephens in 2017. With his background in banking, Ryan brings a strategic approach to financial management and a solid commitment to delivering value to his community. Previously a President of the Tomaree Business Chamber, Ryan understands the importance of driving long-term growth in the region.

Director

Samantha's career spans more than 25 years across highly regulated industries, including logistics and supply chain, financial services, education and health. Sam is a former Telstra Business Woman of the Year and a Fellow of the Australian Institute of Company Directors. An experienced Board executive, she serves on several Boards encompassing banking, transport, social purpose and education. 

Ambassador and Corporate Mentor

Former Chair of the Newcastle Airport Board for five years, Peter now serves as our Ambassador and Corporate Mentor. With an accomplished 21-year career in local government including General Manager of Port Stephens Council for 16 years, Peter brings a wealth of business mentoring expertise to our board. He also serves on the Hunter Business Chamber board.