Qantas has appointed Alexandra O’Connor as its new Head of Sales Channels, marking a strategic restructure just weeks out from the airline’s shift to the New Distribution Capability (NDC) model. The newly created role will bring agency sales and operational support under one umbrella from July 2025, with O’Connor returning to Sydney to lead the charge.
The move comes as Qantas prepares for the 1 July rollout of its updated distribution model, a major shift aimed at improving how travel agents access and service Qantas content.
A new role at a pivotal time
O’Connor will be tasked with guiding trade partners through the NDC transition and delivering what Qantas has described as “more seamless support” across all sales channels.
Currently based in Auckland, O’Connor has spent the past two years as Qantas Regional General Manager for New Zealand and the Pacific Islands, overseeing commercial, financial and operational performance across New Zealand, Fiji, Noumea and Samoa. She previously held senior corporate and industry sales roles in Sydney and has also led commercial teams at medical technology company Getinge.
“We are so pleased to have Alex returning to Australia and taking on this important new role leading our Sales Channels team,” Qantas Executive Manager Global Sales & Distribution Kathryn Robertson said.
“She brings deep knowledge and understanding of our business and her time leading the New Zealand and Pacific Islands team has given her a strong connection to our agency partners.
“Alex will play a key role in supporting our agency partners through the transition to NDC, as we continue to focus on setting them up for success and making it easier to deliver an even better experience for their customers.”
What agents can expect
O’Connor’s new remit will see her lead the airline’s service model for the trade, following Qantas’ March announcement of additional support initiatives for agents navigating the NDC rollout. These include enhanced servicing tools, education and ongoing collaboration with industry partners.
“I’m excited to be stepping into this new role during a really significant time in the business, as we deepen our relationships and enhance collaboration with our valued travel agency partners,” O’Connor said.
“I’m looking forward to returning to Australia and working with the talented people across the broader Qantas team to create more seamless support for agents and our mutual customers, as well as reconnecting with colleagues and friends in the travel industry.
“I would like to thank the wonderful people in the New Zealand travel industry for their support and camaraderie over the past two years. I’m incredibly proud of what we have achieved together.”
The search for a new Regional General Manager for New Zealand and the Pacific Islands is now underway.
KARRYON UNPACKS: Qantas has bundled agency sales and operational support into one national role as it accelerates the shift to NDC. With Alexandra O’Connor at the helm, trade partners now have a familiar face leading the charge through what’s expected to be a major system change. For agents, it’s another signal that Qantas is doubling down on service and support during a pivotal transition.
