Virgin Australia Executive and Leadership Team

September, 2026

Leadership Overview

Virgin Australia has 6 executives leading key functions including financial strategy, information systems, marketing, platform technology, airline operations technology, and human resources.

Focused on delivering a rewarding travel experience, Virgin Australia maintains a commitment to operational excellence and customer service across its extensive global flight network and diverse aircraft fleet.

Leadership Roles at Virgin Australia

  • Chief Financial Officer - Race Strauss
  • Chief Information Officer - David Hogarth
  • Chief Marketing Officer - Elizabeth Minogue
  • Chief Technology Officer, Platforms - Tim Dougall
  • Chief Technology Officer, Airline Operations - Emma Gaicd
  • Chief People Officer - Lisa Burquest
  • Race Strauss - Chief Financial Officer

    Race Strauss, the Chief Financial Officer at Virgin Australia, manages the fiscal health and capital allocation strategies for the airline. Overseeing financial planning, treasury operations, and investor relations, the Chief Financial Officer ensures the company maintains a robust balance sheet to support the modern fleet of 130 aircraft. Strauss directs cost-optimization initiatives across the organization, balancing the demands of full-service operations with the need for sustainable profitability. By analyzing market trends and fuel hedging strategies, the Chief Financial Officer mitigates economic risks inherent in the aviation sector. This leadership role involves close collaboration with the board to align capital expenditure with long-term growth objectives. Through rigorous financial oversight, Race Strauss secures the resources necessary for expanding the airline's reach across domestic and international markets. Ultimately, Strauss drives the financial stability required to sustain the competitive edge of the company within the global transportation industry.

    David Hogarth - Chief Information Officer

    David Hogarth, the Chief Information Officer at Virgin Australia, architects the digital infrastructure supporting the airline's complex booking and operational systems. Overseeing enterprise data security and information technology governance, the Chief Information Officer ensures seamless connectivity across the vast network of 450 destinations. Hogarth directs the integration of advanced software solutions that enhance the passenger experience and streamline internal workflows. By modernizing legacy systems, the Chief Information Officer improves the efficiency of cargo and charter services. This leadership role involves coordinating with external partners to maintain secure data exchanges across the global airline alliance. Through the implementation of scalable cloud technologies, David Hogarth supports the digital transformation of the entire organization. Ultimately, Hogarth optimizes the technological backbone of the company, ensuring that information systems remain resilient and responsive to the evolving demands of the modern aviation market.

    Elizabeth Minogue - Chief Marketing Officer

    Elizabeth Minogue, the Chief Marketing Officer at Virgin Australia, shapes the brand identity and customer engagement strategies for the airline. Overseeing the Velocity Frequent Flyer program, the Chief Marketing Officer drives member growth and loyalty through unique benefits and strategic partnerships. Minogue directs multi-channel campaigns that highlight the airline's commitment to exceptional service and premium travel experiences. By analyzing consumer behavior and market positioning, the Chief Marketing Officer refines the value proposition for over 8 million loyalty members. This leadership role involves aligning marketing initiatives with the broader corporate mission to deliver world-class service. Through data-driven insights, Elizabeth Minogue expands the brand's influence across the Asia-Oceania region and beyond. Ultimately, Minogue secures the airline's reputation as a contemporary, full-service carrier by fostering deep connections with travelers and ensuring the brand remains a top choice for both leisure and business passengers.

    Tim Dougall - Chief Technology Officer, Platforms

    Tim Dougall, the Chief Technology Officer, Platforms at Virgin Australia, engineers the digital platforms that power the airline's customer-facing interfaces and booking engines. Overseeing the development of web and mobile applications, the Chief Technology Officer, Platforms ensures a frictionless user experience for millions of passengers. Dougall directs the technical roadmap for digital innovation, focusing on high-availability systems that support the airline's extensive flight network. By implementing agile development methodologies, the Chief Technology Officer, Platforms accelerates the deployment of new features that enhance the travel journey. This leadership role involves collaborating with cross-functional teams to integrate platform capabilities with the broader IT ecosystem. Through the continuous improvement of digital touchpoints, Tim Dougall drives engagement and operational efficiency across the company's online channels. Ultimately, Dougall architects the digital environment that allows the airline to deliver a modern, seamless, and rewarding experience to every customer.

    Emma Gaicd - Chief Technology Officer, Airline Operations

    Emma Gaicd, the Chief Technology Officer, Airline Operations at Virgin Australia, manages the specialized technical systems required for flight scheduling, maintenance tracking, and ground operations. Overseeing the software that monitors the modern fleet of 130 aircraft, the Chief Technology Officer, Airline Operations ensures peak performance and safety compliance. Gaicd directs the implementation of predictive maintenance tools and operational analytics that minimize downtime and optimize fuel efficiency. By integrating real-time data into flight operations, the Chief Technology Officer, Airline Operations enhances the reliability of the airline's global network. This leadership role involves working closely with engineering and flight crews to deploy technology that supports complex logistical requirements. Through the application of advanced aviation software, Emma Gaicd drives operational excellence across the entire fleet. Ultimately, Gaicd secures the technical integrity of the airline's daily operations, ensuring that every flight meets the highest standards of safety and punctuality.

    Lisa Burquest - Chief People Officer

    Lisa Burquest, the Chief People Officer at Virgin Australia, leads the human resources strategy and organizational development for the airline's diverse workforce. Overseeing talent acquisition, employee engagement, and leadership training, the Chief People Officer fosters a culture of service excellence and professional growth. Burquest directs initiatives that align the workforce with the company's mission to provide the world's most rewarding travel experience. By implementing comprehensive wellness and development programs, the Chief People Officer ensures that staff members remain motivated and equipped to deliver exceptional customer service. This leadership role involves managing labor relations and organizational change to support the airline's evolving business model. Through the cultivation of a high-performance environment, Lisa Burquest drives the internal capabilities necessary for sustained success in the competitive aviation industry. Ultimately, Burquest secures the human capital required to maintain the airline's reputation for quality and reliability across all operational departments.
    Lisa Burquest

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Virgin Australia Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Virgin Australia?
    Virgin Australia is led by Race Strauss (Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as David Hogarth (Chief Information Officer) and Elizabeth Minogue (Chief Marketing Officer).
    Who is part of Virgin Australia’s executive team?
    The executive team of Virgin Australia includes leaders such as Race Strauss (Chief Financial Officer), David Hogarth (Chief Information Officer), Elizabeth Minogue (Chief Marketing Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Virgin Australia have?
    Virgin Australia has 6 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Virgin Australia’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Virgin Australia includes roles such as Chief Financial Officer, Chief Information Officer, Chief Marketing Officer, Chief Technology Officer, Platforms, Chief Technology Officer, Airline Operations.