Virgin Australia names Dave Emerson as new CEO

Airline Virgin Australia has announced it's new chief executive will be Dave Emerson.

Currently the company's chief commercial officer, he'll replace Jayne Hrdlicka who announced her departure last year.

Emerson will begin his transition into the chief executive role immediately and will formally take on the role on March 14, Virgin Australia said.

LIVE UPDATES: Cyclone Alfred bears towards south-east Queensland as emergency preparations get underway

READ MORE: Where and when Cyclone Alfred will make landfall

Virgin Australia Chairman Ryan Cotton said Emerson was chosen after a "global search".

"Detailed plans are in place which will deliver continued growth, strong business  performance, and continuity of strategy further enhancing Virgin Australia's competitive position in the Australian market," Cotton said.

"Dave also appreciates what is special about Virgin Australia – our team and our people – and will continue to act as a steward of our amazing culture.

"We are confident Dave will not miss a beat in leading continued strong performance and growth across our business." 

View gallery

Airline tops Australia's biggest brand movers list

Emerson said he was "humbled" over landing the top job.

"Travel is critical to the way we all live our lives and Virgin Australia plays a vital role for the community in making this possible every day," he said.

"I have experienced firsthand the remarkable journey over the past four years as we have reinvented Virgin Australia.

READ MORE: Will Tropical Cyclone Alfred impact flights this week?

"We exist for our customers, but it is our people who are the heart of this organisation.

"Today, we are Australia's most loved airline, delivering industry leading operational performance and record  financial results.

"I will continue the transformation journey begun under Jayne's outstanding leadership."

Last week Qatar Airways was given the green light to buy a 25 per cent stake in Virgin Australia.

Treasurer Jim Chalmers backed the proposal on the advice of the Foreign Investment Review Board.

READ MORE: 'A very dumb thing to do': Canada takes on Trump over trade war

Qatar Airways and Virgin Australia said the move would mean more flights for Australians, namely 28 new weekly return services between Doha and Perth, Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne.