Queenstown Airport has appointed experienced infrastructure and capital delivery leader Mike Simmers to the newly created role of Chief of Infrastructure.
Queenstown Airport Chief Executive Shane O’Hare said the appointment is an important milestone for the organisation and reflects the company’s investment in its leadership.
“Queenstown Airport is embarking on a transformational period as we advance a once-in-a-generation investment programme to deliver a world-class airport for the Southern Lakes region and New Zealand.
“The creation of the Chief of Infrastructure role reflects the significance of the infrastructure programme ahead of us and the importance of delivering it successfully for our shareholders, community, customers and region.“
Mr Simmers most recently served as Chief Infrastructure Officer at Lyttelton Port Company (LPC), holding enterprise-wide accountability for infrastructure, engineering, marine, facilities, maintenance, port services and security.
Over a career spanning infrastructure, property, planning and major capital delivery, he has led the planning and delivery of complex, multi-year infrastructure programmes worth more than $600 million while maintaining live operations in demanding environments.
“Mike has extensive experience leading large-scale infrastructure programmes in complex operational environments, together with a strong focus on safety, strategic planning and stakeholder engagement.
“His track record delivering major projects while maintaining business continuity makes him exceptionally well placed to lead our infrastructure function and help shape the future of Queenstown Airport.”
At LPC, Mr Simmers led major capital investment programmes including wharf developments, land reclamation projects, marine infrastructure, and rail upgrades. He also played a key role in the Christchurch earthquake recovery programme, overseeing the delivery of significant infrastructure projects in a live operating environment.
Mr Simmers said he was excited to be joining Queenstown Airport at a pivotal time in its evolution.
“Queenstown Airport has a clear vision for the future and a unique opportunity to deliver infrastructure that supports the long-term aspirations of the region while enhancing the experience for customers, airlines, general aviation operators, and the wider community.
“I’m looking forward to joining the team. I’ve been impressed by what has been achieved to date and I’m looking forward to contributing to a programme of work that will have a lasting impact for generations to come."
Mr Simmers said the opportunity to help deliver major infrastructure in one of New Zealand’s most dynamic regions was incredibly compelling.
“I was born and bred in Winton but spent the majority of my teenage years in and around Queenstown and Wānaka, where my parents still live, so my family and I are excited to be moving to the region and becoming part of the local community.”
Mr Simmers will join Queenstown Airport’s Executive Leadership Team in mid-August.
Note to editors:
Master Plan ZQN
A significant capital investment programme is under way at Queenstown Airport. More information about this can be found on the Horizon-ZQN page.
The Chief of Infrastructure will be responsible for leading the airport’s infrastructure strategy, capital delivery programme, and programme execution, ensuring Queenstown Airport is well positioned to support future growth and operational excellence.