Webjet Group has appointed Nicole Sheffield as managing director and CEO, effective 20 July 2026, following a search for a permanent replacement for former boss Katrina Barry.
Ms Sheffield brings more than 25 years leading commercial growth, business transformation and digital innovation across some of Australia’s best-known consumer and technology businesses.
Her appointment takes effect next week and follows the company’s 29 May announcement of Barry’s resignation, and the appointment of Layton Shannos as acting CEO while the board completed its search.
According to Webjet Group, Sheffield will lead the execution of its strategy, with a focus on sustainable growth, operational excellence and innovation.
Who is Nicole Sheffield?
Sheffield joins Webjet Group most recently from Wesfarmers OneDigital, where she was MD and led the group’s enterprise data and digital strategy, including the OnePass membership program, the Catch marketplace and the group’s shared data platform.
She previously also served as executive general manager community and customer at Australia Post, overseeing the country’s largest retail network of more than 4,400 post offices along with its digital channels and customer contact centre.
Earlier senior roles include chief digital officer and CEO of NewsLifeMedia at News Corp Australia, leadership positions at Seven West Media, and a role with TIAS, the joint venture between Qantas, Air New Zealand and Ansett Australia.
Webjet Group says Sheffield also brings significant governance experience across listed, private and not-for-profit organisations. She has recently stepped down as chair of the Australian Retail Council, and has previously chaired the Australian Broadcasting Corporation Advisory Council and the Interactive Advertising Bureau Australia.
The board’s view
Webjet Group interim chair Gary Weiss said the board was thrilled to appoint Sheffield following a comprehensive search process.
“Nicole brings deep commercial, digital, and customer leadership experience, together with proven expertise in building and scaling digital platforms, consumer marketplaces, and data-driven businesses,” he remarked.
“Her track record of leading transformation and delivering sustainable growth makes her well-placed to build on the strong foundations already in place and lead Webjet Group through its next phase of growth.”
The company also thanked Layton Shannos for his leadership as acting CEO during the interim period.
Commenting on her appointment, incoming Webjet Group MD and CEO Nicole Sheffield said she was grateful for the board’s confidence.
“Webjet has built one of Australia’s most trusted and recognised travel brands and has a strong platform for future growth. I look forward to working with the Board and the talented Webjet team to build on the momentum already underway,” she stated.
“Together, we have an opportunity to make travel planning simpler, more personalised and more rewarding for customers, while delivering sustainable long-term value for our partners and shareholders.”
KARRYON UNPACKS: Webjet Group has reached outside the travel sector for its permanent leader, betting that Sheffield’s digital-platform and marketplace pedigree translates to travel. Her focus on data, loyalty and personalisation signals where the consumer brand is headed next.
