CEO of Australia’s embattled Qantas steps down early
Al JazeeraMAY 2023
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.