Fiji Airports appoints three female managers to lead critical departments in landmark move for gender equality

Fiji Airports has strengthened its leadership team with the appointment of three accomplished managers to head critical departments, underscoring the organisation’s commitment to a more inclusive and equitable workplace.

The appointees — Loi Turaga, Manager, Internal Audit; Saleshni Chaudhary, Manager, Communications & Engagement; and Elina Nailatikau, Manager, Marketing & Branding — bring deep experience across finance, governance, communications, and brand strategy. Their unique skills and experiences will enhance Fiji Airports’ operational excellence, stakeholder and community engagement, and brand presence.

Fiji Airports Chief Executive Officer Mesake Nawari said the appointments reflect the organisation’s strategic focus on capability and diversity in leadership.

“The inclusion of these highly skilled professionals strengthens our leadership bench and brings fresh perspectives, innovation and a wealth of experience into our operations,” Mr Nawari said.

“Their expertise will be key in driving Fiji Airports’ growth and service excellence.

This milestone positions Fiji Airports as a leader in promoting gender equity within Fiji’s aviation and infrastructure sector. It aligns with our strategic vision to be the world-class aviation hub for the Blue Pacific, inspiring hope for a more inclusive and diverse future.

Ms Turaga joins Fiji Airports with extensive expertise in finance, risk management, audit and compliance. A chartered accountant and member of the Institute of Internal Auditors (Fiji Chapter), she has held senior leadership roles, including Group Manager Audit at CJ Patel Group, and Chief Risk Officer and Chief Finance Officer at the Tonga Development Bank — where she became the bank’s first Group Chief Finance Officer.

 

Her experience also spans the Fiji Public Trustee Corporation Limited, Suva City Council and BDO Fiji.
Ms Turaga’s results-driven approach and strategic governance skills will be instrumental in strengthening Fiji Airports’ internal controls and performance oversight.

Ms Chaudhary leads Fiji Airports?Corporate Communications team, bringing over 20 years of experience in communications, marketing, stakeholder engagement, and public relations. She brings a strong track record of high-impact campaigns. Her previous roles include Communications Specialist at the Fiji Sugar Corporation Ltd, Marketing & PR Officer at the Fiji National University, and senior communications positions with the Water Authority of Fiji, the Fiji Revenue & Customs Authority and UN Women.

This is her first role in the aviation sector; her experience in crisis communications and public relations is directly relevant to a safety-critical environment where public confidence is paramount.

Ms. Nailatikau brings over a decade of experience across media, brand management, corporate communications and community development in Fiji, Papua New Guinea and the United Kingdom. Her professional background includes senior roles with Fiji TV, Sky Pacific, FBC, Fijian Holdings and the United Learning Group in the UK.

 

She has co-founded Marama Alliance UK and served on the board of Community Fiji Britain, championing initiatives for women, youths and diaspora communities.

At Fiji Airports, she will leverage her global perspective and local insights to strengthen brand visibility, customer engagement and community partnerships. This newly created role is pivotal to building and maintaining a strong brand, as well as supporting business growth and expansion.

Mr Nawari added that the recruitment of female leaders in a traditionally male dominated organization is crucial, as diverse perspectives enhance innovation and foster more inclusive and productive workplaces.

“Collaborative, empathetic leadership styles can lift employee engagement, improve decision making and, ultimately, drive performance,” he said.

(photo credit to Fiji Airports)