Tiger confirms new Australian CEO

Former Qantas executive Rob Sharp has been named chief executive of Tiger Airways as the low cost carrier's joint venture with Virgin Australia approaches completion.

Sharp, who has served in various commercial roles at Qantas over the last 15 years, will step into the role on May 1 filling the void created by the deparrture of Andrew David in March.

Tiger group chief executive, Koay Peng Yen, expressed confidence Sharp would bring "creative ideas and solutions" to the role.

"With him in the cockpit, we can expect strong, sound business decisions, and positive results at the end of the day," he said.

Virgin Australia boss John Borghetti highlighted the benefits Sharp's "extensive" experience would bring to the airline.

"I am confident that Rob will build a sustainable low cost carrier and bring strong competition to the budget sector," he said.

Virgin's acquisition of a 60% stake in Tiger received approval from the Australian competition regulator last week but remains pending additional approvals, including clearance from the Foreign Investment Review Board.