Cyclone to stardom: Gisborne Airport's operations manager named 'Emerging Leader of the Year'

Gisborne Airport’s “exceptional” operations manager Aaron Lum Picture by Strike Photography

Gisborne Airport operations manager Aaron Lum has been named the first Emerging Leader of the Year at the 2023 NZ Airports Awards.

Aaron is just one year into his role as the first point of contact for all day-to-day operations at Gisborne Airport. Six months in, he found himself at the centre of the response to Cyclone Gabrielle.

Judges commended Aaron for his people leadership, skill, genuine care and ability to bring the airport system together harmoniously, showing he is a great asset to the sector and has a bright future.

Richard Holyoake from awards sponsor Beca said the new, Emerging Leader category was established to celebrate the amazing people across the airport network and showcase the diversity of airport careers.

“We received compelling and heartfelt applications from across the country for Emerging Leader of the Year, including for team members in operations, rescue fire, sustainability and marketing staff who have made a real difference to their airports.

“Aaron demonstrated remarkable leadership at Gisborne Airport during the cyclone response, demonstrating remarkable leadership for the safety and wellbeing of everyone at the airport and for the rescue and support services surging into the region.

“He continues to go from strength to strength developing his skills across every aspect of airport operations. He has an inspiring story and is a great ambassador for our sector,” Mr Holyoake said.

Aaron is overseas at present but Gisborne Airport manager Murray Bell was extremely proud to accept the award on his behalf.

“We are beyond proud of Aaron that his exceptional leadership has been recognised at this level.

“It is a testament to his professionalism, passion and genuine care for colleagues and the community.

“At just 28 and only being in his role for six months, Aaron was thrown in the deep end when Cyclone Gabrielle struck our region earlier this year.

“His can-do, fix-it nature and ability to remain calm was instrumental as he turned what seemed like an insurmountable crisis into an opportunity to showcase our resilience.

“His dedication to excellence and commitment to the community he serves will undoubtedly continue to leave a lasting and positive impact on the airports sector in the years to come.”

The NZ Airports Awards were presented at a gala event at the Christchurch Art Gallery, sponsored by Beca. The evening saw 14 annual awards presented for infrastructure, commercial, sustainability and community engagement projects, as well as the new award for Emerging Leader of the Year.