Qantas job losses confirmed as airline reshuffles leadership team, CEO Vanessa Hudson emails staff

Qantas has revealed changes to its senior leadership structure, confirming several executives will depart as teams streamline ahead of the festive period.

Rumours of up to 400 executive job losses circulated through Aussie Corporate on social media, but Qantas has not confirmed the number of roles affected.

In an email to staff from Group CEO Vanessa Hudson, the airline outlined a customer-focused realignment and new technology priorities.

“Andrew, Cam, Markus, Rachel and Steph will be making some changes to their leadership teams, which will be communicated shortly,” the email stated.

The structural changes mean several people will be leaving the Group, including Chief Data and Information Officer Andrew Walduck and Executive Manager Inflight Experience David Kondo.

Qantas says Mr Walduck and Mr Kondo will be assisting as they transition to an updated structure in the new year.

Andrew Glance, Qantas’ Loyalty CEO, will now oversee Group customer strategy and insights, becoming CEO of Qantas Loyalty and Customer. Qantas International and Freight CEO Cam Wallace takes on inflight and on-ground products, including lounges and direct channels.

Qantas Domestic CEO Markus Svensson will add customer care, recovery and contact centres to his portfolio, plus oversight of QantasLink.

Rachel Yangoyan will step into the new role of Chief Technology, AI and Transformation Officer, drawing on over 20 years with the Group.

Ms Hudson noted the moves support over 200 new aircraft deliveries and AI investments, while reducing the Group Leadership Team, including through no replacement for Chief Customer Officer Catriona Larritt.

“These changes will help us continue delivering for our customers while supporting you to do your best work in what promises to be another exciting year ahead,” the email to staff concluded.