Ash Howell is a dynamic aviation executive with over 17 years of leadership experience at Qantas Airways, Australia’s flagship carrier. As Executive Vice President for the Americas, Ash spearheads Qantas’ commercial strategy and growth initiatives across the United States, Canada, and South America, positioning him as a key figure in US-Australian business relations.

In his current role, Ash holds full revenue accountability for the region while managing critical relationships with government bodies, regulatory authorities, and industry partners. He directs the strategic Qantas-American Airlines Joint Business Partnership and plays an instrumental leadership role in Project Sunrise, one of the airline’s most transformative global initiatives.

Ash’s career reflects a consistent track record of leadership in complex, high-stakes environments. Prior to his current role, he served as Head of Global Sales and Customer at Qantas Freight where he led a global team across Australasia, Asia, the Americas, and Europe, managing $1.5 billion in annual revenue. His career at Qantas also includes senior leadership positions in indirect sales, people and culture, business transformation, and corporate and government sales.

Ash brings broad experience in governance and strategic oversight through his participation in senior leadership councils and transformational initiatives at Qantas. He has been actively involved in diversity and inclusion programs and is committed to fostering sustainable business practices. With a deep understanding of international markets and a passion for strengthening bilateral relations, Ash is well-positioned to contribute to the strategic direction and mission of organizations that promote cross-border collaboration.

Ash holds a Bachelor of Business in Management and Marketing and has completed advanced leadership programs with GE and Qantas. Based in Los Angeles with his wife and two children, he maintains active interests in golf, international travel, snow skiing, and squash.