Key Qantas man in running for Air NZ

By STAFF REPORTER

Qantas Airways deputy chief executive Gary Toomey is being tipped in Australia to head rival Air New Zealand.

Mr Toomey, who is also chief financial officer, is a key member of the Qantas hierarchy and his departure would leave the airline facing the loss of three of its top four managers over a relatively short period.

Fellow deputy chief executive Geoff Dixon is also a hot contender to replace James Strong as chief executive when he leaves next year.

The hint of another departure was sufficient to send Qantas shares down 9c to 360Ac yesterday.

An Air New Zealand spokeswoman declined to comment on the speculation.

Chairman Sir Selwyn Cushing said last week that an appointment to fill the vacant chief executive's position was imminent.

Cathay Pacific's director for corporate planning, Tony Tyler, has also been named as a strong candidate.