Qantas reacts to downturn by slashing 90 executive jobs
The Qantas Group has announced plans to cut 90 senior management positions, as part of a "fundamental review of the company's organisational structure", amid the downturn in demand. The move was foreshadowed in local media on Monday.
The airline is maintaining a salary freeze and making a number of role changes for remaining managers.
Qantas CEO, Alan Joyce, stated, "it is clear that the aviation sector faces considerable commercial challenges for the foreseeable future. Qantas must respond decisively to what is happening, and our response must begin with those of us who lead the company".
He added that while the global financial situation will affect Qantas and other airlines, the Group's ability to "make hard changes earlier than others distinguishes Qantas from its competitors".
Mr Joyce took over the CEO position from Geoff Dixon in late 2008. Mr Dixon's ongoing advisory agreement with the airline expires at the end of this month.