CASA media release - Friday 14 September 2007
CASA strengthens leadership team
The leadership team of the Civil Aviation Safety Authority has been strengthened with the appointment of a new deputy chief executive officer.
Mick Quinn has been appointed deputy CEO Operations, to be based in CASA's operational headquarters in Brisbane.
Mr Quinn has more than 25 years experience in the aviation industry and safety management, having worked for two major airline groups in senior positions.
Over the last two years he has held the position of executive director, Rail Safety Regulation, in the NSW Independent Transport Safety and Reliability Regulation body.
Mr Quinn began his aviation career as a commercial pilot at Sydney's Bankstown airport in the early 1980s.
He joined Qantas in 1988 and became manager of Air Safety Investigation, a role that involved investigating incidents, developing safety management systems and providing safety education and awareness training for flight crews.
In 1998 Mr Quinn joined the Emirates Group, becoming senior vice president Safety. He was responsible for safety management systems, managing safety audits and surveillance and implementing human factors and risk management programs.
CASA's chief executive officer Bruce Byron says Mick Quinn brings an ideal mix of aviation skills and experience to the senior ranks of Australia's air safety regulator.
"Mick is passionate about aviation and an expert in safety management," Mr Byron says.
"He will lead and continue to develop and improve our vital operational team that oversights the safety of all Australian air operators, building on the significant improvements of the last two years.
"Mick will be based in CASA's new operational headquarters in Brisbane, placing him close to industry and giving him the ability to observe the safety performance of the aviation industry, with a particular focus on passenger-carrying operations.
"I expect Mick to use his skills in risk analysis and safety management to drive further changes to the way CASA delivers safety oversight.
"Mick brings additional firepower to CASA's revitalised and energetic senior management team."
Media contact:
Peter Gibson
mobile 0419 296 446
Ref: MR0756