Former TfNSW secretary Rob Sharp has been appointed as interim CEO of Airservices Australia, following the federal government’s decision not to reappoint former ASA chief Jason Harfield.

Mr Sharp was sacked from his position as the state’s top transport bureaucrat as part of a public service sweep by the Premier Chris Minns in April 2023.

In May this year, transport minister Catherine King announced Mr Harfield was leaving the national airspace management agency despite the board recommending his reappointment.

On Thursday Ms King said Mr Sharp had been appointed as interim CEO for up to 12 months while a global search is launched for a permanent replacement.

The appointment recognised Mr Sharp’s considerable experience in aviation, business, accountancy and engineering, the minister said.

In a statement on LinkedIn Mr Sharp said he was excited to share the news of his appointment, commencing 29 July.

Fostering a high performance culture, facilitating sustainable aviation and investing in world leading technology would be focus areas, he said.

“Airservices has a deep history and a committed team, transforming the end-to-end experience for all those using our skies,” Mr Sharp said.

“I look forward to working closely with the Airservices team, customers and industry to support the long-term growth of the aviation industry and deliver the Federal Government’s objectives for aviation.”

Ms King also announced the reappointment of John Weber as chairman of the ASA board.

“Together, Mr Weber and Mr Sharp’s knowledge and experience will provide continuity to the organisation in the coming period and help Airservices Australia navigate future opportunities and growth in aviation,” she said in a statement.

Prior to heading TfNSW for two years Mr Sharp was CEO for Virgin Australia Airlines and Tigerair Australia.

Mr Weber has worked extensively for corporations and the Australian Government in the rail, aviation, health and defence sectors, and has conducted inquiries and provided strategic advice to a range of government agencies.