The man who helped the ACT Brumbies out of financial doldrums is set to take on a new role, one that will see him look to the skies.
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Michael Thomson has been appointed as Canberra Airport's new head of aviation, and will take on the position from February next year.
Mr Thomson, who was chief executive of the Brumbies for almost two years, stepped down from the position a year earlier than expected in September this year, after helping the team report back-to-back profits for the first time in the club's history.
He said while managing a rugby team and managing flights may seem radically different, there were many parallels in the roles.
"There's many similarities in working with teams to achieve results, and it's a lot about the relationships and managing people to drive outcomes," Mr Thomson said.
"The Brumbies are an iconic Canberra brand, and I think the airport itself is one of those things that Canberrans can be proud of. Without a doubt it's one of the best airports in Australia."
Expanding international flights out of Canberra is set to be one of the key priorities for Mr Thomson in his new role.
There are two international airlines currently operating out of the capital, with Qatar Airways running flights to Doha via Sydney and Singapore Airlines running flights from Canberra to Singapore.
"The role itself is about building relationships both domestically and internationally, and creating more opportunities for Canberra from a tourism sense," Mr Thomson said.
"I haven't started in the role yet, but I know the airport group is keen to expand its footprint into Asia."
Flight cancellations between Canberra and Sydney have long been a source of contention for the airport, and the incoming aviation head said flight experience would be a focus in the job.
"Flight experience is important to passengers and the airport as well, and we're working to look at all of those things," Mr Thomson.
As well as heading up the Brumbies, Mr Thomson has previously worked for FIFA, Sports Australia and Nike.
Upon resigning from the Brumbies earlier this year, Mr Thomson said faster than expected results off the field was behind his decision to walk away.
Canberra Airport managing director Stephen Byron has welcomed the new appointment.
"Michael Thomson is an excellent addition to the Capital Airport Group leadership team," Mr Byron said.
"His achievements demonstrate he is a very successful leader who can drive growth and manage a high-performing organisation."
