Christian Venzal has been appointed Managing Director of Airbus Helicopters in Australia and New Zealand, with effect 1 November. Based in Brisbane, Christian is responsible for the company’s civil and military helicopter business in both countries, as well as for its MRO services and local operations.

Christian Venzal moves to the region from the company’s headquarters in Marignane, France, where he was previously Vice President Transversal Coordination and Business Development.  He is a veteran of the aerospace business with a career spanning 30 years. In this time, he has worked in the areas of general management, strategy, sales and customer relations, as well as procurement.

Commenting on his nomination, Christian Venzal said: “Australia and New Zealand are key markets for our helicopter business, with a strong footprint in the civil, parapublic and military segments. In addition, we have an important local presence in both countries with some 1,300 employees in Australia and 200 in New Zealand. I look forward to further developing our position in these markets, working closely with colleagues, customers, partners and industry stakeholders.”

Venzal reports to Vincent Dubrule, Head of Airbus Helicopters Asia-Pacific. He succeeds Andrew Mathewson, who is pursuing opportunities outside the company. Today, over 500 Airbus helicopters operate in the civil, parapublic and military segments in the Pacific region. The company has operational sites in 21 locations and is fully committed to supporting local industries, offering skilled employment and career opportunities with one of the global leaders in the aerospace sector.