Hudson is a long-time executive with the airline and was currently the Qantas chief financial officer but has also been chief customer officer and senior vice president for the Americas and New Zealand.

Hudson would be only the 13th chief executive of the now 103-year-old company. Her replacement as chief financial officer has not yet been named.

Joyce has been a controversial leader of the company after his outspoken role in the same-sex marriage debate, but he also shut down the airline and locked out employees in 2011 during a heated industrial dispute. He remains a demonised figure among unions.

Hudson’s appointment meant that the two major airlines would be run by women with Jayne Hrdlika running Virgin.

“It’s an absolute honour to be asked to lead the national carrier,” Hudson said.

“This is an exceptional company full of incredibly talented people and it’s very well positioned for the future.

“My focus will be delivering for those we rely on and who rely on us – our customers, our employees, our shareholders and the communities we serve.”

Chair Richard Goyder said Hudson won the job through a rigorous selection process.

He said Hudson had a deep understanding of the business after almost 30 years with the company.

“For the past five years Vanessa has had a direct hand in shaping our strategy as a member of the group management committee and her handling of the finance and treasury portfolio during the Covid crisis was outstanding.” Goyder said.

“She also led the fleet selection process in 2022 for the renewal of our domestic jet aircraft over the next decade.”