The tropical island’s new CEO is Chris Mills, who will officially join the team later in the year. Mills is currently CEO of Sunshine Coast Airport, with his resignation announced in late May.
Previously he was CEO of Experience Gold Coast and spent eight years heading up Queensland Airports Limited, which operates Gold Coast Airport alongside several other regional airports in the state.
He has also been CFO of both South Bank Corporation in Brisbane and Dreamworld on the Gold Coast and sat on several boards, including the Tourism and Transport Forum, Tourism and Events Queensland, Visit Sunshine Coast, Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary and the Australian Airports Association. He’s currently a member of the board for both Events Management Queensland and the Queensland Tourism Industry Council.
“Hamilton Island is one of Australia’s most iconic destinations, and I’m honoured to have the opportunity to lead it,” said Mills.
“I’m excited to build on the incredible foundation that’s been established here, and to work alongside a talented team to deliver exceptional experiences for our guests while unlocking new opportunities for growth.”
Alongside Mills’ appointment, Renae Trimble has been appointed COO for Hamilton Island, starting with the destination in June.
Trimble moved over from the National Rugby League where she was chief commercial officer but has spent the vast majority of her career in the hotel sector, spending 17 years with Accor, following stints with Marriott Hotels and Rydges Hotels. At Accor she held multiple roles, culminating in being chief commercial officer, before she moved over to head up Accor Plus.
“Hamilton Island holds a truly special place in the hearts of Australians, and I couldn’t be more excited to join at such a pivotal moment,” said Trimble.
“I’ll be working closely with our teams to drive future commercial growth through deepening our customer focus.”
Chair of Hamilton Island, John Borghetti, praised both new recruits.
“Chris is an accomplished leader with extensive experience across aviation, tourism and major infrastructure, and a strong understanding of the role connectivity plays in growing successful destinations,” said Borghetti.
“He is exceptionally well placed to lead Hamilton Island through its next phase of growth and development.
“Renae brings deep hospitality expertise together with outstanding commercial, digital and operational experience.
“Her appointment further strengthens our leadership team as we continue to elevate the guest experience and build the long-term performance of the business.”
Earlier this year, Hamilton Island passed into the ownership of private equity giant Blackstone – who also own Crown Resorts – after more than two decades of ownership by the Oatley family.
