Navigating the Skies: Annette Mann's Journey to Success with Austrian Airlines

Annette Mann reflects on her unexpected entry into the aviation industry, which began with a trainee program at Lufthansa. She emphasizes the importance of gaining diverse perspectives through various roles, which has shaped her holistic understanding of the business. Mann says her leadership style is adaptive, tailored to different situations and team needs, ranging from crisis management to innovation. 

In the interview, Mann discusses Austrian Airlines' position within the competitive landscape of European aviation. She highlights the brand's strengths in hospitality and operational stability, while acknowledging the challenges posed by low-cost carriers and geopolitical factors. She says Austrian Airlines is focused on maintaining high quality service and leveraging its strong market presence in Central and Eastern Europe. 

Mann shares insights into the launch of Lufthansa's premium economy class, drawing parallels with her experience at BMW. She highlights the strategic and commercial challenges involved in introducing new product lines and the importance of aligning them with customer expectations and market dynamics. 

Addressing the industry's environmental impact, Mann outlines Austrian Airlines' commitment to sustainability through measures such as fleet modernization, efficient flight operations, and sustainable aviation fuel initiatives. Despite the challenges of balancing affordability and eco-friendly practices, the airline aims for CO2 neutrality by 2050. 

The CEO of Austrian Airlines advocates for diversity beyond gender, emphasizing varied backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. She encourages young women to pursue their career ambitions without being constrained by societal expectations. Austrian Airlines promotes shared leadership roles, fostering a supportive environment for employees balancing career and family life. 

Mann's advice to the audience is to remain curious and open to rethinking systems for improvement. She shares personal reflections on overcoming perceived disadvantages as a woman and highlights the importance of passion in the work-life balance. Her favorite way to recharge is spending time in nature, particularly sailing.