Hawke’s Bay Airport names new CEO after lengthy search

Hawke's Bay Airport on the outskirts of Napier. Photo / Warren Buckland

Hawke’s Bay Airport has announced its new chief executive following a 10-month search.

Nick Flack, a Christchurch Airport senior executive, has been appointed to the top job and is to commence service in the role on February 3, 2025.

The airport has been without a chief executive since the departure of former CEO Rob Stratford in January.

Stratford resigned after less than two years in the job.

Hawke’s Bay Airport’s new chairman Jon Nichols said the board was delighted with the appointment.

“Nick comes to Hawke’s Bay with a proven track record of leadership within infrastructure organisations including aviation, shipping, and logistics,” Nichols said.

“We are looking forward to having Nick on board and taking our airport into the future.”

Nichols said staff at the airport had worked exceptionally well despite not having a chief executive for most of the year.

“In appointing Nick, I’d also like to acknowledge the dedication of our airport team, who stepped up significantly and showed exceptional commitment during the period of time without a chief executive.”

Nick Flack has been named Hawke's Bay Airport's new chief executive.

Most recently, Flack has been general manager of planning, assets and safety at Christchurch Airport.

Before that, he held management positions at Lyttleton Port and Centre Port.

“Nick’s experience over the last 11 years in aviation, coupled with a deep understanding of the importance of regional infrastructure assets, will complement the skilled and talented team we’ve built at the airport,” Nichols said.

Flack said he was excited to take the next step in his career.

“My new role offers a fantastic opportunity to contribute to regional prosperity and the future success of the airport.

“There is plenty to get my teeth into, and I am really looking forward to being in Hawke’s Bay, settling my young family into their new home, and leading the airport team.”

Former CEO Stratford was paid remuneration of $255,000 as chief executive of the airport for the financial year ended June 30, 2023, his last full year in charge, according to the airport’s annual report.