Jetstar Japan has today announced a new leadership structure following the resignation of current Representative Director and Chief Executive Officer, Miyuki Suzuki.

Jetstar Japan has appointed Masaru Kataoka as its new Chairman and Representative Director and Gerry Turner as its new Chief Executive Officer.

Mr Kataoka is currently Jetstar Group Regional General Manager in Japan. He has almost 30 years’ experience working in aviation and has worked in senior management roles in Japan within the Jetstar Group.

Mr Turner joins Jetstar Japan from the Jetstar Group where he has worked for over 11 years in numerous leadership roles in the airlines and is currently the Executive Manager, Group Operations, supporting the Jetstar-branded airlines across the Asia-Pacific including Japan, Singapore and Vietnam.

Jetstar Group Chief Executive Officer Jayne Hrdlicka said the new leadership structure would position Jetstar Japan well for the future.

“I’m delighted to announce the appointments of Masaru Kataoka and Gerry Turner to the Jetstar Japan leadership team where they will lead the existing management team,” Ms Hrdlicka said.

“Masaru is one of the leading low cost experts in Japan and has great knowledge of the local market.

“Gerry is one of the most experienced low cost carrier executives in the world. He has worked in aviation for 36 years and worked for low cost carriers across the Asia-Pacific and Europe, including his native Ireland, for 22 years, bringing a wealth of low cost aviation experience to Jetstar Japan.

“The new leadership team will be beneficial as Jetstar Japan embarks on the next phase of its development. The combination of experience that Masaru and Gerry bring will be invaluable for Jetstar Japan as it continues to strengthen its market leadership position.”

Jetstar Japan, the largest low cost carrier operating in Japan with almost 60 per cent of the market, is a joint venture between the Qantas Group, Japan Airlines, Mitsubishi Corporation and Century Tokyo Leasing Corporation. Jetstar Japan commenced operations in July 2012 and is now operating a fleet of 20

A320 aircraft on 19 routes to 11 domestic destinations and operates international services to Hong Kong. The airline has carried more than 8 million passengers.

Ms Hrdlicka thanked Ms Suzuki for her commitment and passion to bring the very best in low fares travel to the Japanese market for the past three and a half years.

“Miyuki has been instrumental in the successful launch and ongoing growth of Jetstar Japan,” she said.

“Under her leadership the airline has secured its place as the market leader for low fares in Japan and has recently commenced international flights.

“We are sad to lose her and wish her the very best in the next chapter of her impressive career.”

“We are also grateful for the guidance and wisdom brought by Shinji Fukukawa, the Jetstar Japan’s Honourary Chairman, who will remain with Jetstar Japan in an advisory capacity.”

Ms Miyuki said that she had enjoyed her time at Jetstar and the decision to leave was difficult.

“I have been honoured over the past three and a half years to have had the chance to launch and lead Jetstar Japan, which has made affordable air travel a reality for many customers and stimulated new market demand.

“Above all, it has been my pleasure to work with so many dedicated and professional colleagues who are committed to ensuring the safety of our passengers and delivering an enjoyable flight experience.

“I would like to thank all our staff, our shareholders, regulators and partners who have given our airline and me personally, so much valuable support and assistance. I am certain that Jetstar Japan is poised to make further strides with the new leadership team, cementing its position as the leading low cost carrier in Japan.”