From Airports to Inflight Innovation: Ana’s Journey at Qantas

What first brought you to Qantas, and how did your career journey unfold?

I joined Qantas as a contractor nearly 15 years ago to help solve a complex business challenge. Today, I’m Product Manager for the digital inflight experience, a natural step from a role I previously held. My journey has taken me across many areas of the business. I started in Commercial Airports, building a successful third-party advertising unit. Then I moved into Marketing, working on Entertainment, Monetisation and Personalisation, including the rollout of inflight Wi-Fi. Later, I joined Loyalty Ventures, contributing to the Wellbeing App and Insurance during COVID. In 2022, I moved into Customer Experience to lead product design for Inflight Entertainment and Connectivity. Now, I’m part of the Digital team, focused on enhancing the inflight experience.

What do you enjoy most about working at Qantas?

No two days are the same. Even with a plan in place, something new always comes along to keep things interesting.

How does your work make a difference to our customers?

My work is centred on the customer. I love that the products I manage are tangible, how people are entertained and stay connected in the air. With technology evolving rapidly, we’re unlocking new ways to make travel smoother and more memorable.

What’s one project or achievement you’re particularly proud of?

One achievement I’m particularly proud of is being part of Project Sunrise, Qantas’ landmark initiative to operate the world’s longest direct flights. It is the culmination of years of innovation and collaboration and will deliver a world-first digital cabin experience designed to transform ultra-long-haul travel.

How has Qantas supported your growth and development?

Qantas has given me the chance to pivot and explore new areas without leaving the organisation. I’ve had leaders who encouraged and supported me to pursue opportunities I might not have considered on my own.

If you had to describe working at Qantas in three words, what would they be?

Dynamic. Collaborative. Rewarding.

What advice would you give someone wanting to break into your type of role?

Trust the process. Every role adds to your toolkit. Be curious, build your network, talk to people across the business and keep learning. It all adds up.

Ana, Product Manager, Digital Inflight Experience