Asia Pacific helicopter operator Pacific Helicopters has appointed Hamish Manson as its new chief financial officer (CFO).

Manson brings deep aviation and energy sector experience, including 13 years as CFO of PHI International New Zealand (formerly Helicopters New Zealand) and more than two decades in senior finance roles at Solid Energy New Zealand. Most recently, he served as CFO of Ports Nelson in New Zealand.

He has a strong commercial focus, with expertise in maintenance operations, major capital projects, complex customer and supplier contracts and import-export businesses. He said his time away from aviation reinforced where his passion lies.

“After a short time away from the aviation environment, I realised just how much I'm drawn to this industry and the critical role it plays,” Manson comments. “Pacific Helicopters has built a reputation as a world-class operator with the highest safety and quality standards and a genuine focus on its people. Opportunities to work with a team that holds these values highly don't come around often.”

Pacific Helicopters has delivered helicopter services to oil, gas, mining, construction and telecommunications companies across Asia Pacific since 1975. Founded in Goroka, Papua New Guinea by aviation pioneer Malcolm Smith with a single aircraft, the company has grown into a 160-strong workforce, including 100 Papua New Guinean nationals, and operates a modern, state-of-the-art fleet from its bases in Goroka and Port Moresby.

The business has achieved several national and industry milestones over the years, including introducing the Airbus H145 helicopter to Papua New Guinea and creating meaningful career pathways for many Papua New Guineans in aviation and other industries.

Manson said he is looking forward to contributing to the company's continued growth. “The opportunities for an organisation with 50 years of experience are immense,” he continues. “I'm excited to be part of Pacific Helicopters as it continues to grow and expand across PNG and Australasia.”

Pacific Helicopters CEO Edward Matane says Manson's appointment comes at an important time for the business: “Hamish brings a depth of experience across aviation and complex operating environments that aligns strongly with where we are heading as a business. His commercial mindset and leadership will be key as we continue to strengthen our operations and support our customers across the region.”