Jetstar has appointed former Air Nelson general manager Grant Kerr as its new head of New Zealand, with improving the airline's operational performance at the top of his task list.
Jetstar chief executive Australia and New Zealand, David Hall, said one of Kerr's major priorities will be developing the customer experience with the airline's on-time performance a particular focus.
"While we have made some improvements in this area, we know our passengers want the assurance of consistent service as much as they want low fares," he said.
Hall added that Kerr joins the carrier at an "exciting time".
"With a fleet of nine aircraft operating 400 domestic and 100 international flights each week, Jetstar has reached a scale where we are a viable and cost effective choice for both business and leisure travellers," he said.
"This new appointment is a further commitment to New Zealanders that Jetstar and our low fares are here for the long-haul."
Based in Auckland, Kerr will be responsible for the airline's operations, customer experience, stakeholder relations and will head up a local team of 500 staff. He will join Jetstar in the second half of the year.
Meanwhile, Jetstar Hong Kong has announced the appointment of Edward Lau as its new chief executive officer.
Lau will step into the role on February 18 ahead of the carrier's mid-2013 launch.
