The Qantas Group has today announced the appointment of Alison Watkins as an independent Non-Executive Director, as part of further renewal of its Board.
Ms Watkins brings deep experience as a senior executive and Director across a range of industries including manufacturing, retail, financial services, agriculture and consumer goods. She is currently a member of the Reserve Bank Monetary Policy Board, a Director of CSL, Wesfarmers and Chancellor of the University of Tasmania.
Prior to that, her senior executive roles included Group Managing Director of Coca-Cola Amatil Limited, where she was responsible for operations in Australia, New Zealand, Indonesia and the South Pacific, and Managing Director and CEO of Graincorp Limited.
Announcing the appointment, Qantas Group Chairman John Mullen said Ms Watkins' skills and experience will add to the diverse skills and experience of the other Directors when she joins the Board in early March 2026.
"Alison has demonstrated outstanding leadership across some of Australia's largest and most complex businesses, as well as the invaluable experience of helping to set Australia's monetary policy with the Reserve Bank," Mr Mullen said.
"Alison's appointment adds further depth and expertise to the Qantas Board at an important time for the airline."
Ms Watkins said: "Qantas is an iconic Australian brand with a proud heritage and a vital role connecting Australia to the world.
"I'm excited to be joining the Board at a time of significant opportunity for the airline. I look forward to working with my fellow directors and the management team from early next year when my Reserve Bank term concludes."
Shareholders will vote on her position on the Board at the Qantas Group 2026 Annual General Meeting.
Alison Watkins - Career Summary
Recent Non-Executive Roles:
- PGA of Australia - Non-Executive Director (2022 - Present)
- University of Tasmania - Chancellor (2021 - Present)
- CSL - Non-Executive Director & Chair Audit & Risk Committee (2021 - Present)
- Wesfarmers - Non-Executive Director (2021 - Present)
- Reserve Bank of Australia Board Member (2020 - 2025) and Monetary Policy Board Member (2025 - Present)
- Business Council of Australia - Board Member (2016 - 2021)
- Centre for Independent Studies - Board Member (2011 - 2024)
- Australian Institute of Company Directors - Board Member (2009 - 2011)
- ANZ Bank - Non-Executive Director (2008 - 2014)
- Woolworths Australia - Non-Executive Director (2007 - 2010)
Recent Executive Roles:
- Coca-Cola Amatil - Group Managing Director (2014 - 2021)
- GrainCorp - Chief Executive Officer / Managing Director (2010 - 2014)
- Bennelong Group - Chief Executive Officer (2008 - 2010)
- Mrs Crocket's Kitchen - Executive Chairman (2006 - 2007)
- Berri Limited - Chief Executive Officer & Director (2002 - 2005)
- ANZ Bank - Various roles (1999 - 2002)
- McKinsey & Company - Various roles (1989 - 1998)
