Alan Joyce Steps Down as Qantas CEO

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The Spin

Narrative A

Joyce was a titan in the notoriously tough air travel industry, with his longevity as CEO being a testament to this. He weathered economic hardships and the COVID pandemic, all while upholding an impeccable safety and service record. While short-term grievances against Qantas are overshadowing his contributions to Australia's aviation industry, history will remember him fondly in the long term.

Narrative B

Under his leadership, Joyce has turned Qantas from the "spirit of Australia" to the shame of it. Abysmal customer service, deception, and insulting product quality all contributed to much-deserved public anger against Joyce. For his troubles, Joyce will likely be rewarded with a compensation package worth tens of millions, and it is incumbent on the Qantas board and new CEO to change company culture.


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